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New Zealand travellers are becoming more deliberate about how they spend their travel budgets, while remaining reluctant to abandon trips when faced with disruption, new Booking.com research shows.
The inaugural Travel Happiness Index found 69 per cent of Kiwi travellers prioritise local food and meaningful experiences when planning trips, while 65 per cent will choose their dates or destinations based on available deals.
More than half, 54 per cent, would extend a trip to allow more time to rest and experience a destination.
Despite concerns including inflation, extreme weather, crime and political instability, 90 per cent of respondents say they would adapt their travel plans rather than cancel a trip.
Technology is also playing a growing role in travel decisions, with 78 per cent saying digital tools make planning and booking easier and 68 per cent using tools including search engines, booking platforms and AI to find and compare travel options.
Booking.com regional manager Oceania and Korea Todd Lacey says Kiwi travellers remain pragmatic about what makes a good trip.
“Safety, clear pricing, relaxation, quality time with loved ones, and advance booking confirmation are the key ingredients of a great trip.”
The research surveyed more than 10,000 people across 10 Asia-Pacific markets, including 1,017 New Zealanders, in May.
