Combine Hawaii’s natural appeal with increased seat capacity and a great exchange rate and it’s no wonder Kiwi visitor numbers are up 31 per cent year to date.
Local rep Darragh Walshe said Kiwis are getting a lot for their money and Hawaii offers “extremely affordable” accommodation, activities, food and beverage – not to mention the shopping.
“Kiwis are aware that Hawaii offers more than a sun and sand holiday. The Hawaiian culture is extremely strong and visitors can get off the beaten track to experience the destination from an outdoor, cultural and historical perspective,” said Walshe.
He said Waikiki has been transformed into a “fresh and vibrant” entertainment precinct with green areas and a real Hawaiian feel.
“Hawaii is also gaining a reputation for its cuisine - a combination of local produce with influences of Asia, Pacific and North America.”
Of course, a trip to Hawaii wouldn’t be complete without a multi-island experience.
“When people go they explore and get out to the Big Island for the volcano, Maui for the resorts and Kauai for the lush greenery.”
With so much to do, it will come as no surprise that Kiwi visitors are comfortable staying an average of 10 days. However, getting there is another story.
“Next year is looking strong already. The key [for agents] will be encouraging clients to get in and book early. There are not enough seats to meet demand.”
Seat capacity has always been a problem for the destination, which like any Pacific destination relies on airlift to survive. Happily, Air New Zealand is coming to the party. The airline will put a B777 on the route during the peak months of July, August and September in 2012 providing an additional 2000 seats. Walshe said the additional July service offered this year was well booked and gave weight to arguments for increased capacity.
“The B777 provides better inflight product and suits larger groups, particularly incentives,” said Walshe.
Also gaining traction on the route is Air Pacific, who have been marketing a service from Nadi to Honolulu (three times a week) and packages that include two nights free in Nadi.
Kiwis also have the option of travelling via Australia on Hawaiian Airlines (HA), Jetstar and Qantas.
HA account manager Stephen Tanner said sales were up and business was good.
“We’ve noticed a real increase in interest in Hawaii over the last few years, and in particular this year. Obviously the strength of the NZD versus the USD is one factor, but Hawaii seems to be really prospering as a destination and seems to be back in vogue with the New Zealand traveler - HA sales this year are up over 60 per cent as a result,” said Tanner.
The airline has been quick to move forward while business is good and will launch a daily non-stop service between New York City's John F. Kennedy International Airport and Honolulu from June 4, 2012.
HA will operate a fleet of new Airbus A330-200 aircraft on the route, with 18 seats in first class and the remainder in economy.
Travelers on the new flights will enjoy HA’s signature Hawaii Flies With Us inflight hospitality programme showcasing Hawaii's culture, natural beauty, and the Aloha Spirit of its people.
In more good news, the Virgin Australia group of airlines now codeshare on HA services between Sydney and Honolulu.
HA CEO Mark Dunkerley said the codeshare was an exciting step forward for both companies.
“Hawaii is one of the fastest-growing leisure markets from Australia, and no airline serves Hawaii
as comprehensively as we do, with over 170 flights each day from Honolulu to and between the
islands,” said Dunkerley.
The airline has also committed to five new A330-200 aircraft for delivery between 2013 and 2015, with purchase rights for an additional three A330s.
“Adding these additional A330-200s to our fleet over the next four years will support the continued expansion of our network and replacement of our current 767-300s,” said Dunkerley.
The new A330s are more fuel-efficient than the B767s and have a longer operating range, giving HA the option to open new nonstop routes between Hawaii and points throughout all of North America and eastern Asia.
Going forward, Walshe said the plan was to continue working cooperatively with wholesalers and put pressure on airlines to increase access because “there are still more opportunities”.
He urged agents to start the Ke Kula training modules, for a chance to go on the annual famil.
“There are around 250 agents in New Zealand who have completed it. It is extensive but valuable. It means you are one step ahead of the customer when they come in. – Rebecca Emery
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