New Zealanders are continuing to prioritise international travel, with Kiwi holidaymakers breaking records – despite the ongoing cost-of-living crisis affecting households across the country.
Statistics NZ figures show May was the busiest on record for New Zealanders returning from an international trip – exceeding numbers from before the Covid-19 pandemic.
Paula Rhodes, owner of Hornby House of Travel, said the appetite for travel remains strong across all age groups.
“A lot of it is about making up for lost time,” she said. “That older generation especially; there’s a sense that you need to make the most of those years. You’ve got to get out there and live while you can.”
Trip numbers to Asia have also skyrocketed.
Statistics NZ spokesperson Bryan Downes said short-term trips to Asia by New Zealand resident travellers were up 20% in the June 2025 year, compared with the previous year – driven primarily by more trips to Indonesia, China, Japan, and India.
In the 12 months to June, 316,100 New Zealanders travelled to Asia for short-term getaways; a staggering 34% increase on the previous year.
Rhodes said much of the Bali surge is due to Air New Zealand offering direct flights to Denpasar.
“It’s more accessible than ever, it’s an easy destination, and once you’re there, it’s relatively affordable,” she said.
Japan is also experiencing a significant spike in visits from Kiwis, particularly among younger travellers.
“Japan is huge at the moment. People love the cultural difference. It’s a real assault on the senses — from traditional kimonos to anime. The Japanese people are incredibly welcoming, and there’s so much going on.”
Arthur Blake of Christchurch attended the Travel Expo this morning and had already booked a Europe trip for 2026.
“There’s more confidence now, so we can book a month-long holiday. You know you can book a holiday and know that your flights won’t be cancelled,” he said.
Despite the cost-of-living pressures facing New Zealanders, Rhodes said it hasn’t dissuaded Kiwis from booking trips overseas.
“We do sometimes scratch our heads about the cost of living situation — but travel still seems to be very much part of people’s budgets. We love to travel — and living at the bottom of the world, that’s understandable. Especially with the weather we’ve had lately in Christchurch — who wouldn’t want a bit of heat and sunshine?” she said.
