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Asia-Pacific destinations are gaining ground on traditional European favourites as New Zealand travellers plan their overseas holidays, according to new search data from Booking.com.
Analysis of searches for travel during the Northern Hemisphere summer period shows every destination recording a year-on-year rise in popularity among Kiwi travellers is located within the Asia-Pacific region.
Vietnam leads growth
The strongest growth was recorded by Ho Chi Minh City, which climbed 15 places in Booking.com’s rankings compared with the previous year.
Danang rose 11 places, while Hoi An climbed nine places, highlighting growing interest in Vietnam as a holiday destination.
Other destinations showing significant gains included Denarau in Fiji (+11), Seoul in South Korea (+10) and Sanur in Indonesia (+9).
Shorter flights, better value
Booking.com regional manager Oceania and Korea Todd Lacey says Kiwi travellers are increasingly looking for destinations that offer value and convenience without sacrificing the overall experience.
“Kiwi travellers are increasingly looking for destinations that offer shorter travel times, are more affordable and less crowded, without compromising on experience.
“Since last year, we’ve seen a strong momentum towards Asia-Pacific destinations that offer a mix of culture, relaxation, culinary scene and warm climate, all within a relatively shorter journey from New Zealand.”
Todd says the trend reflects changing traveller priorities, particularly around crowd avoidance and off-peak travel.
Sustainability influences choices
Booking.com’s Travel & Sustainability 2026 report found 48 per cent of New Zealand travellers plan to avoid overcrowded tourist destinations, while 53 per cent are considering travelling outside peak periods.
The findings suggest travellers are becoming more selective about where and when they travel, with emerging destinations benefiting from the shift.
“For travel operators, it also highlights growing demand for off-peak travel and emerging destinations beyond the traditional hotspots,” Todd says.
Top destinations
Australia continued to dominate the rankings, with the Gold Coast retaining the top position among international destinations searched by New Zealand travellers.
Rarotonga ranked second, followed by London, Tokyo and Seminyak.
Among the fastest-rising destinations were:
| Destination | Change in ranking |
|---|
| Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam | +15 |
| Danang, Vietnam | +11 |
| Denarau, Fiji | +11 |
| Seoul, South Korea | +10 |
| Sanur, Indonesia | +9 |
| Hoi An, Vietnam | +9 |
| Brisbane, Australia | +6 |
Industry implications
The data points to continued strength in demand for destinations within a relatively short flying distance of New Zealand, particularly across South-East Asia and the Pacific.
For tourism operators, the trend suggests travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that combine value, accessibility and authentic cultural experiences, rather than focusing solely on traditional long-haul markets.
The search data is based on Booking.com searches made between March 1 and April 30, 2026 for travel between June 1 and August 31, 2026.
