New Zealand steals the limelight at World Travel Awards

TODAY, our Kiwi neighbours are celebrating. The best airlines, hotels and experiences around the world have been named - and New Zealand beat us to the top spot in many categories.

Air New Zealand has been named the best airline in Australasia. Picture: Michael Thomas

TODAY, our Kiwi neighbours are celebrating with vigour across the Tasman.

The best airlines, hotels and travel experiences in Australasia have been named - and New Zealand beat us to the top spot in many categories. The winners were announced at a ceremony in Dubai for the 20th World Travel Awards, known as the 'Oscars of the tourism industry'.

Of particular joy for the Kiwis was the announcement of Air New Zealand as Australasia's best airline - for the FIFTH year in a row. Oh, it also won the best airline lounge.

Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar and Tiger Airways, it's time to take note.

World Travel Awards President and Founder Graham Cooke said of the win: "It is a real privilege to bestow the World Travel Awards for Australasia's Leading Airline and Australasia's Leading Airport Lounge to an airline that continually raises the bar in offering the highest standards of service and care whilst ensuring a uniquely personal New Zealand experience for all its customers."

New Zealand also scored a win for the category of leading boutique hotel, for The Spire in Queenstown.

However, when it came to the favourite destination in Australasia, the winner was Sydney.

Other categories where Australia shined included 'leading airport' and 'leading hotel'.

Mr Cooke said Australasia is a competitive tourism region.

The grand final of the World Travel Awards will take place on November 30 where the regions will go up against each other.

List of World Travel Award winners in Australasia:

Australasia's leading airline: Air New Zealand

Australasia's leading airline lounge: Air New Zealand Koru Lounge, Christchurch International Airport

Australasia's leading airport: Sydney Airport, Australia

Australasia's leading airport hotel: Airways hotel Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

Australasia's leading boutique hotel: The Spire Queenstown, New Zealand

Australasia's leading boutique island resort: Qualia, Great Barrier Reef

Australasia's leading cruise line: Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Australasia's leading hotel: Intercontinental Melbourne The Rialto

Australasia's leading resort: Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa

Australasia's leading tourist board: Tourism New Zealand

Australasia's leading destination: Sydney

See more winners here.

The Spire Hotel, Queenstown. Picture: Supplied

Qualia, Hamilton Island. Picture: Luke Marsden