The Kiwi Link trade events being held in the Los Angeles this week and London next, provide travel operators in New Zealand the chance to connect with international buyers, sell products and drive New Zealand holiday bookings.  

“The events are key to building relationships and supporting the recovery of the sector. The message from New Zealand is clear – we are well and truly open for business and ready to give visitors once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences,” said Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive René de Monchy, who is currently attending Kiwi Link North America. 

The North American event is back after a 15-year hiatus and is Tourism New Zealand’s largest offshore event to date; with 66 sellers, 9 International Marketing Associations, 53 buyers, 10 special guests, 8 airline representatives, and 17 Tourism New Zealand team members. 

North America remains a key market for Tourism New Zealand with American visitors spending up to $1.53 billion in New Zealand each year pre-COVID-19. 

The UK/Europe Kiwi Link will be held in London next week, the largest Kiwi Link event held in the UK in the last 10 years. 

Latest Tourism New Zealand research shows 39% of UK Active Considers want to visit New Zealand by February 2023. 

A delegation of 49 New Zealand exhibitors, 40 operators and 9 International Marketing Associations will meet 49 buyers from UK and EU. 

The events were timed to enable operators to fill bookings for the 22/23 summer season.