Positive vibes from NZ travel agents after TTNQ initiative

Standout environmental assets, cultural and adventure experiences in the Far North have been showcased to New Zealand travel agents.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland has engaged in an NZ marketing push with the announcement that seat capacity from New Zealand to Cairns Airport would double next year.

New Zealand’s top Expedia Travel Agent Affiliate Program agents were rewarded with an eight-day ‘famil’ of the Far North ahead of the increase in direct flights to Cairns.

Kuku Yalanji Elder Uncle Roy Gibson at Mossman Gorge. Picture: Brian Cassey

TTNQ chief executive Mark Olsen said the trip highlighted environmental assets and experiences on offer.

“Air New Zealand is increasing their seasonal direct flights from Auckland to three times a week from July 4 and to four times a week from August 5,” Mr Olsen said.

Rocco Restaurant at Crystalbrook Riley. Picture: Supplied

“Jetstar has announced the direct flights from Christchurch to Cairns will start in April 2025 giving direct access from New Zealand’s South Island for the first time.

“New Zealand is currently Tropical North Queensland’s fourth largest international market with 32,000 visitors in the year ending March 2024, but we expect that number to grow in 2025 with the additional flights,” he said.

Aerial view of the Solar Whisper Wildlife and Crocodile Cruise boat, heading up the Daintree River. Picture: Supplied

“It is less than six hours’ flying time from both Auckland and Christchurch making Cairns an ideal tropical getaway for New Zealanders wanting to escape their cold winters for warm sunshine.

“There are more than 2500 tours showcasing Tropical North Queensland’s two World Heritage areas, the outback, Indigenous culture and, of course, our laid-back lifestyle,” Mr Olsen said.

He said TTNQ received great feedback from the eight Expedia agents and the Air New Zealand representative.

Aerial view of white water rafts in the rainforest surrounds of the Tully Gorge. Picture: Supplied

The group who did day tours to Cape Tribulation and Kuranda, visited Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre, and went white water rafting.

“Site tours of hotels in Palm Cove and Port Douglas, a wildlife experience, free time to explore art galleries and restaurant experiences gave them a good overview of activities that would appeal to their market,” Mr Olsen said.

Originally published as Positive vibes from NZ travel agents after TTNQ initiative