The majority of visitors to New Zealand are spirited travellers looking for adventure, according to research by the New Zealand Tourism Board.
The manageable size of the country ensures flydrives are growing in popularity. It is an nation of low-cost motoring and there is an extensive range of easily available accommodation on hand.
NZTB UK manager Louise Poole said: “Flydrive in New Zealand really sells itself. It is the easiest and most popular way to see New Zealand and it is unquestionably the most popular way. It appeals to all ages, to anyone with the slightest sense of adventure, and it is exceptionally good value.”
“It’s a product that more tour operators are promoting hard and it is a market that is growing fast as total visitor numbers to New Zealand increase.”
British Airways Holidays claimed its business to New Zealand is up 50% on last year and reflects increasing demand for flydrive. Jetset expanded its self-drive options for 1999 and Tradewinds will add to its self-drive range in its next brochure.
Tradewinds reservations manager Andy Murray said: “The DIY touring side of our New Zealand business has really grown. Everything there is to say about self-drive is positive and as more clients realise this, the more we sell.”
All report stronger demand for campervans which combine transport and accommodation costs for as little as £26 a day for two people. Minimal camping regulations in New Zealand mean maximum freedom.
The majority of clients want to see a bit of both North and South Islands and in recognition of this, car and camper-hire companies have adapted their rental conditions to allow for easier cross-island hire.
Poole said: “Most people fly in to Auckland and out of Christchurch, having driven between the two. This can cause a problem because operators end up with all their vehicles in the wrong place.
“Operators have worked to overcome this and we actively encourage clients to plan itineraries in the opposite direction, which is equallyenjoyable.”
Most clients choose to set up their own itineraries but the tourist board does offer a Themed Drives guide with suggested itineraries and operators such as Travel 2 and Kuoni include suggested package itineraries.
Flag Choice Hotels – already well established in the market through its hotel pass – is developing the self-drive market with the launch of a new dedicated brochure of suggested New Zealand itineraries.