To boost domestic tourism, Air New Zealand has brought back its Mystery Breaks packages, where the destination of your holiday is a surprise. Rose Dykins reports
Air New Zealand has re-introduced its Mystery Breaks offering – for domestic trips only – where customers book a package holiday without knowing where they’re going.
The airline’s Mystery Breaks deal incorporates popular holiday destinations where all travel arrangements are taken care of – including deciding what the destination should be.
Customers simply define their budget by choosing from a “Great”, “Deluxe” or “Luxury” break and select the date they want to travel. They also name one destination they would prefer to avoid. Two days before departure, travellers receive an itinerary that reveals where they are going on holiday.
The “Luxury” package category is a new addition for the latest iteration of Mystery Breaks. It includes flights, five-star accommodation with breakfast and dinner included, and a luxury rental car.
All Mystery Breaks packages include flights to one of Air New Zealand’s 20 domestic destinations, accommodation at an Accor hotel with breakfast included and airport transfers or a rental car from Avis.
Packages start from NZ$599 (£312) per person and are available to book now through Air New Zealand’s website.
The revival Air New Zealand’s Mystery Breaks offering is part of the airline’s efforts to boost domestic travel since New Zealand’s international borders have been closed due to Covid-19.
Mystery Breaks itineraries include having a sunrise experience in Tairawhiti Gisborne (the first city in the world to see the sun each day), tasting locally made food and wine in Blenheim, or discovering street art, heritage architecture and wild penguins in Dunedin.
“We’re really excited to have refreshed Mystery Breaks – it’s part of doing our bit to boost local tourism,” says Air New Zealand’s general manager of brand and marketing, Jeremy O’Brien. “Previously, these had been mostly purchased by corporate customers, but we’ve developed the packages further to appeal to leisure travellers.
“It takes the admin out of booking a holiday – you don’t have to research and plan all the separate elements – all you have to do is get on the plane. They are also a great gift option because you don’t need a name or a date to buy a voucher – the recipient can decide at a later date.”
Globetrender has previously reported on the trend for surprise travel, and how it appeals to those seeking spontaneity and excitement from their next trip. At a time where many of us are struggling to make plans without plenty of pre-planning, risk assessment and restrictions, Globetrender predicts a resurgence of the surprise travel trend.
Not only does surprise travel appeal to travellers’ sense of adventure, but it also allows travel providers to create packages with their unused inventory – such as available hotel nights or flights – making it an effective way to boost revenue.
What’s coming next? Trend reports available to download HERE
