The great Kiwi overseas experience (OE) has long been a rite of passage for young New Zealanders, but new research suggests it’s evolving.
Auckland Airport has released a new report, shedding light on changing travel trends in the great Kiwi OE.
Where are New Zealanders going?
Traditionally, the UK and Europe have been top destinations, with four out of 10 travellers heading there. While London remains popular, its appeal is waning.
In the past, 39% of people visited London on their OE, but now only 30% of future travellers plan to do so.
Scott Tasker, Auckland Airport’s chief customer officer, said cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Vancouver, New York, and Tokyo had also gained popularity.
“It’s easier to get to many of these cities than in the past,” he said.
“Being so far from other countries – even Australia is around 2000km away – we make the most of our international travel opportunities.”
The great Kiwi overseas experience (OE) has long been a rite of passage for young New Zealanders, but new research suggests it’s evolving. (Source: Breakfast)
Changing demographics
Tasker said OEs aren’t just for the “young’uns” anymore.
“An increasing number of Kiwis are having OEs later in life. More than half were planning an adventure after they turn 40.”
One in five are embarking on OEs in their 60s or older.
“We are great travellers, and we keep doing that as we get older.”
Despite this shift, the OE remains most popular among the under-30s.
Seventy-two per cent of those who have taken an OE were aged 30 or younger.
Shorter stays, bigger adventures
As the ages of people travelling change, so does the length of their overseas experiences, with 42% taking an OE of three months or less.
“The great Kiwi OE has transformed from a working holiday into an extended overseas adventure,” Tasker said.
Interestingly, for a third of those who have been on an OE in the past, not staying longer is their biggest regret.
