The programme aligns with Tourism New Zealand’s four-year strategy focused on growing year-round and off-peak arrivals. 

“Travel sellers play a massive role in bringing people to New Zealand, working closely with the travel trade across our key markets is an integral part of growing year-round arrivals,” says René de Monchy Tourism New Zealand’s Chief Executive. 

In the last 12 months, 35% of the tickets sold to New Zealand* were bought through the trade channel. 

“The refreshed training will ensure travel sellers are just as clued up about New Zealand’s three off-peak seasons as they are about our summer,” said de Monchy. 

The programme has been designed specifically for travel sellers and is delivered in bite-sized (3-7 minute long) modules. It covers essential things to know about New Zealand’s off-peak seasons, like getting around, the weather and suggested itineraries. 

The refreshed programme was first launched in India in October, receiving positive reviews. 

Munira Hatim of Journeys by Design said the new programme provided excellent learning: “short, interesting, to the point, yet shares the important information required for planning the perfect itinerary for clients.” 

Over 85% of all holiday arrivals from India are booked through a travel agent. 

The updated programme will be launching to travel sellers across TNZ’s other markets in early 2025 – including North America, the UK, Germany, Australia, Southeast Asia, Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. This will be followed by an update of training content for travel sellers in China. 

*Year ending Aug 2024, Source IATA.