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.
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.
“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.”
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.
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