Tourism New Zealand strengthens partnerships to boost Indian arrivals

March 25, 2025

Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) is working to make it easier for Indian travellers to visit and experience New Zealand’s landscapes and culture through initiatives that remove traditional barriers, simplify booking processes, and offer new reasons to choose New Zealand as a year-round holiday destination.

A potential direct flight route between India and New Zealand could remove travel barriers and simplify longhaul journeys. At a tourism reception hosted by TNZ, prime minister Christopher Luxon witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Air India and Air New Zealand to explore direct connectivity, making New Zealand more accessible to Indian travellers.

Tourism New Zealand aims to increase Indian visitation through direct flights, partnerships, and targeted marketing campaigns; Auckland in New Zealand, pictured

TNZ is also reinforcing its commitment to increase Indian arrivals through strategic alliances and seasonal travel initiatives. It recently signed an MoU with Auckland Airport and Air New Zealand committing investment to a joint seasonal marketing campaign to build demand and drive off-peak visitation to New Zealand.

Additionally, joint venture agreements were signed with nine Indian travel partners to drive visitation through curated travel experiences tailored to Indian traveller preferences, with a focus on promoting New Zealand’s winter and spring seasons.

An integrated winter campaign was also launched, combining media content with promotional travel packages. The initiative aims to target Indian visitors through digital media placements and provide conversion opportunities via travel partners, showcasing New Zealand’s winter destinations, adventure sports, and luxury stays.

René de Monchy, chief executive of TNZ, said: “We are focused on enhancing these commercial partnerships and through improved connectivity and strategically targeted high-impact marketing campaigns, we are keen to convert this interest into bookings and visitation.

“With Indians typically travelling outbound during their key holiday periods that align perfectly with New Zealand’s traditionally quieter seasons, we see a significant opportunity for medium and long-term growth as a preferred, premier holiday destination for Indian visitors all-year round.”

Ponant rebrands as Ponant Explorations Group

By TTG Asia

March 25, 2025

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Ponant is embarking on a new chapter with a refreshed identity as Ponant Explorations Group, following its recent acquisition of a majority stake in Aqua Expeditions.

This evolution aligns with the Group’s international growth strategy to build a portfolio of leading exploration voyage brands, while reinforcing its ambition to accelerate development and strengthen its position in a dynamic and evolving market.

Ponant Explorations Group’s three commercial brands are Ponant Explorations, Paul Gauguin Cruises, and Aqua Expeditions; photo by StudioPonant-SofiaSteeg

CEO Hervé Gastinel confirmed that as Ponant Explorations Group, the company remains focused on providing unique travel experiences to key destinations, offering access to exclusive locations, and maintaining high service standards.

Additionally, Ponant Explorations Group is also developing a portfolio of brands recognised for their expertise and destination-driven exploration cruises.

Staying true to its heritage, Ponant Explorations Group maintains continuity in its brand identity, keeping the iconic three-sail logo. At the same time, each of the group’s three commercial brands features its own unique visual identity.

Ponant Explorations, its historic brand, is renowned for its exploration voyages, offering guests close encounters with nature and culture beyond traditional maritime routes for over 35 years. The brand provides expert-led expeditions, including shore excursions and cultural, scientific, and historical conferences on board. Paul Gauguin Cruises, a specialist in French Polynesia since 1998, offers a unique exploration experience aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin, with 165 cabins. Aqua Expeditions, a pioneer in luxury small-ship expeditions, explores biodiverse and culturally rich destinations with bespoke five-star itineraries, a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, and expert-led excursions.

“The Asia-Pacific team is excited and proud to be part of this phase of strong expansion,” said Deb Corbett, CEO Asia Pacific for Ponant Explorations Group. “We all look forward to implementing our diverse and dynamic go-to-market action plans to support the vision and growth of this portfolio.”

Cunard’s Queen Anne makes maiden call to Singapore

By TTG Asia

March 25, 2025

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Cunard’s new ship, Queen Anne, made her debut in Singapore on March 24, docking at Marina Bay Cruise Centre for an overnight stay as part of her 107-night maiden world cruise, which will visit over 30 destinations across more than 20 countries.

Singapore and Hong Kong are the only destinations in Asia where the ship will stay overnight, which includes New York, San Francisco, Auckland (New Zealand), Cape Town (South Africa) and Sydney (Australia).

Queen Anne docks at Singapore’s Marina Bay Cruise Centre for the first time

A plaque exchange ceremony was held to mark the ship’s maiden call to Singapore, during which commemorative plaques were exchanged between captain David Hudson and representatives from SATS-Creuers Cruise Services, which operates the Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore; the Singapore Tourism Board; and Wallem Shipping.

On March 24, over 40 local travel advisors were invited onboard for a familiarisation tour of the ship’s facilities and hosted to lunch at the Britannia Restaurant. The advisors got a first-hand look at signature offerings onboard, such as the Royal Court Theatre, a two-deck venue with 825 seats, and the ship’s grand atrium, which spans three storeys and features a mural sculpture that changes throughout the day.

The staterooms offered onboard include Cunard’s Grills Suites, which are paired with two of the ship’s main restaurants, the Queens Grill and the Princess Grill. These suites vary in size, ranging from approximately 28m² to 134m².

On March 26, Queen Anne will continue with her world voyage and set sail for Kuala Lumpur and Penang, followed by Mauritius, South Africa, Namibia, Senegal, Tenerife (Spain) before completing her journey back in Southampton on April 27.

In February 2026, Queen Anne will offer a five-night sailing from Singapore to Hong Kong as part of her 2026 world voyage.

RateHawk launches new sustainability search tool

By TTG Asia

March 25, 2025

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Online B2B platform RateHawk has introduced a new sustainability certification filter in its accommodation search – this tool helps travel professionals find properties with lower carbon footprints, eco-friendly practices, and thoughtful sustainability initiatives.

Users can select this filter to browse a list of greener options. Relevant accommodation will also display a sustainability certification badge on their hotel card for easy identification.

RateHawk has launched a sustainability certification filter to help travel professionals find eco-friendly accommodation

The new filter is available on the RateHawk website and mobile web.

Ilya Kravtsov, chief commercial officer of Emerging Travel Group, RateHawk’s parent company, commented: “By rolling out a sustainability certification filter, we aim to help travel professionals and their clients quickly and easily find eco-certified options. This update is particularly crucial for users in the travel management company sector, as sustainability policies are increasingly prioritised by their corporate clients. This initiative reflects our commitment to creating a user-friendly platform that meets all our customers’ needs and supports the sustainable development of the tourism industry.”

Red Sea International Airport, Plaza Premium Group to pioneer new lounge services in Saudi Arabia

By TTG Asia

March 25, 2025

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daa International has partnered with Plaza Premium Group (PPG) to manage premium hospitality services at Red Sea International Airport (RSI), a collaboration that will see PPG implement its Plaza Premium First standards in Saudi Arabia for the first time.

PPG will manage a range of premium services, including four premium lounges for passengers, five F&B outlets, and seven dining rooms catering to airport staff. In a first for Saudi Arabia, the premium departure lounges will also offer a fully à la carte dining experience for all passengers.

The collaboration will see Plaza Premium Group implement its Plaza Premium First standards in Saudi Arabia

The new RSI airport is designed to reduce travel stresses and provide passengers with a seamless experience from the moment they arrive. The terminal’s architecture creates a private aircraft terminal feel, offering a personalised experience through smaller, intimate spaces. The lounges and F&B outlets aim to provide a relaxing environment, aligning with the sustainable ethos of The Red Sea destination.

RSI CEO Andrew Tyler-Smith shared: “By combining our expertise in airport management with Plaza Premium Group’s global excellence in hospitality, we are setting a new standard for comfort, service, and innovation. We look forward to welcoming travellers to our premium lounges and dining spaces, where every detail is designed to enhance their journey.”

Okan Kufeci, senior vice president, EMEA of Plaza Premium Group, added: “By introducing Plaza Premium First standards to Saudi Arabia, we are not only enhancing the travel experience but also reinforcing our commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality solutions globally. This collaboration is a testament to our ongoing efforts to innovate and elevate airport services, setting new benchmarks for comfort and luxury”.

Escape for family fun at Amara Sanctuary Sentosa

By TTG Asia

March 25, 2025

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Amara Sanctuary Sentosa has launched the Family Adventure Escapade, designed for families with children aged 11 and below, offering the chance to create memories with a 450-metre ride across South-east Asia’s steepest zip line at Mega Adventure Park.

The package includes complimentary daily breakfast buffet for two adults and two children, 20 per cent savings when dining at Sanctuary Tearoom, two tandem tickets at MegaZip Adventure, as well as a complimentary Vanilla Milkshake at Sanctuary Tearoom daily for children aged 11 and below.

Families can enjoy a zip line tandem ride at Mega Adventure Park

The Family Adventure Escapade package is available for all room types except Amara Sanctuary’s Courtyard Suite and Couple Suite.

For more information, visit Amara Sanctuary Sentosa.

Marriott International and Ecopia Group ink MoU

By TTG Asia

March 25, 2025

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Marriott International has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ecopia Group, marking a strategic collaboration aimed at elevating corporate events and luxury travel experiences.

Both parties will leverage their respective strengths to develop an innovative market expansion programme, fostering deeper collaboration in the events and hospitality industry. In Malaysia and Indonesia alone, Marriott International operates over 130 hotels, with continuous growth each year.

From left: Ecopia Group’s Lim Hean Beng and Tan Snow Wie; Marriott’s Ramesh Jackson and George Varughese at the MoU signing at The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur

This initiative aims to introduce greater entrepreneurship opportunities and support startups and enterprises in expanding into the Malaysian and Indonesian markets, further driving economic growth and reinforcing the region as a premier travel destination.

Tan Snow Wie, group managing director of Ecopia Group, said: “This is an important day for us because it really speaks volumes to the speed and growth of the work that we have now as we continue to drive excellence in the event industry…”

This news comes several months after Ecopia Group expanded its regional presence with the opening of a new office in Singapore.

Urban Resort Concepts reinforces leadership team

By TTG Asia

March 24, 2025

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Urban Resort Concepts has appointed three senior executives to lead its corporate team, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering handcrafted experiences through culturally immersive guest journeys while driving innovation and growth across its expanding portfolio in Asia.

Nicholas Liang, with over 22 years of luxury hospitality experience across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, is the new vice president of operations. He was recently general manager at Four Seasons.

From left: Nicholas Liang, Michael Faulkner and Andreas Zimmermann

Michael Faulkner takes on the vice president of brand and commercial role. He brings with him an extensive experience in luxury hospitality, having held senior commercial leadership roles with brands such as Swire Hotels, Park Hyatt, and Crown Resorts.

Named vice president of development, Andreas Zimmermann hails from a strong background in luxury hospitality project management. Formerly corporate director of development for Rosewood Hotel Group, he has led the development of luxury hospitality projects across Asia-Pacific, overseeing feasibility studies, financial management, and contract negotiations.

New Zealand comes to life in Minecraft

By TTG Asia

March 24, 2025

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New Zealand has teamed up with Warner Bros Pictures and Mojang Studios to launch a world-first destination DLC (downloadable content) for Minecraft, enabling players worldwide to explore New Zealand in-game.

The DLC will launch alongside the release of Warner Bros Pictures’ A Minecraft Movie, starring Jason Momoa and Jack Black, filmed in New Zealand and set to premiere worldwide.

Minecraft players can now visit New Zealand and experience a variety of real-world activities in the Minecraft Aotearoa New Zealand DLC

Prospective manuhiri (visitors) can experience a range of real-world activities in the Minecraft Aotearoa New Zealand DLC, such as paddling a waka in Abel Tasman, exploring glow-worm caves in Waitomo, or stargazing in Tekapo. They can then craft their own real-life adventure by booking New Zealand’s official 100% Pure Minecraft Itinerary, transforming this virtual journey into a dream trip to New Zealand.

Players will get a glimpse of travelling around New Zealand, taking part in activities that showcase Aotearoa’s culture, landscapes, and people. The game features six New Zealand locations, including Waitomo Caves (Waikato), Rotorua (Bay of Plenty), Kapiti Island (Wellington), Abel Tasman (Nelson/Tasman), Tekapo (Mackenzie), and Doubtful Sound (Fiordland).

Alongside adventure activities and quests, players can explore Māori culture, customs, and treasures, experience the sounds of taonga pūoro (musical instruments), and encounter native wildlife.

With widespread appeal and over 300 million copies sold, Minecraft is the best-selling video game of all time. The partnership enables Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) to connect with 70 per cent of its primary target audience in key markets who actively engage with Minecraft, making it a powerful tool for global engagement.

Minecraft players worldwide can now download and play the Aotearoa New Zealand DLC for free from the Minecraft Marketplace.

TNZ chief executive René de Monchy hopes the initiative will encourage people to turn pixels into plane tickets and experience New Zealand in person.

“This is our chance to invite the world to play Aotearoa New Zealand and show just how much fun people can have here. We want to give people an immersive taste of what New Zealand has to offer,” he said.

“Shooting A Minecraft Movie in New Zealand was an amazing experience. There is so much to experience here that you can’t do anywhere else in this world. We’re excited to give Minecraft players a glimpse of it in the upcoming Aotearoa New Zealand DLC,” shared Torfi Frans Ólafsson, senior creative director of original content and entertainment at Minecraft, and producer of A Minecraft Movie.

To promote the launch of the DLC and the movie, TNZ has also partnered with Klook and Trip.com, using the collaboration to drive off-peak arrivals. Klook will integrate Minecraft products into its Klook NZ Pass, while Trip.com will promote Minecraft-inspired itineraries. The campaign, starting in early April, aims to bring New Zealand’s immersive experiences to a broader audience.

Continued travel vigilance as Flores volcano settles

By Dhini Oktavianti

March 24, 2025

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Volcanic activity at Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara has reduced over the weekend, but the Indonesian Agency for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics (BMKG) is urging continued vigilance while local tourism stakeholders are maintaining caution.

Lewotobi Laki-laki’s eruption on March 20 had resulted in seven flight cancellations from Australia to Bali, and five delayed services from Australia, Singapore, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur on the same day. A Singapore-Lombok flight was cancelled on March 21. Domestic flights between Bali and Labuan Bajo were also impacted, although no airport was shut down during the period.

Volcanic activity at Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki in Flores has decreased, but authorities urge continued vigilance

Flights to Bali have since resumed.

Paul Talo, chairman of the Indonesia Inbound Tour Operators Association, said the disruption had a “noticeable” impact on tourism activities, specifically hotels, restaurants, and tour packages, in addition to flights. Precise impact figures are pending at press time.

Hariyadi Sukamdani, chairman of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association, noted that impact on travel and tourism could have been worse if the eruption had occurred during the high season.

He added that with Indonesia lying in the ring of fire and nature being unpredictable, tourists should be aware of potential travel disruptions.

Meanwhile, Bali and Angkasa Pura, the country’s airport manager, are working on alternative flight routes that bypass areas with volcanic ash. Tjok Bagus Pemayun, head of the Bali tourism office, said it is hoped that efforts would minimise losses from the destination’s number one source market, Australia.

Bayu Sutanto, secretary general of the Indonesian National Air Carrier Association, shared that airlines are closely monitoring the situation through the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre in Darwin, Australia as well as airport operation centres.

Tourism New Zealand strengthens partnerships to boost Indian arrivals

Ponant rebrands as Ponant Explorations Group

Cunard’s Queen Anne makes maiden call to Singapore

RateHawk launches new sustainability search tool

Red Sea International Airport, Plaza Premium Group to pioneer new lounge services in Saudi Arabia

Escape for family fun at Amara Sanctuary Sentosa

Marriott International and Ecopia Group ink MoU

Urban Resort Concepts reinforces leadership team

New Zealand comes to life in Minecraft

Continued travel vigilance as Flores volcano settles

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