Forget predictable getaways. In 2025, New Zealand travellers are redefining the art of travel, seeking deeper connections with themselves, with loved ones and with the world around them. According to Booking.com‘s latest Travel Predictions research, Kiwis are embracing experiences that defy convention and prioritize personal enrichment.
“Kiwis will be travelling with intention in 2025 and the underlying theme we’ll see for travel plans is that it’s not about ticking off the bucket list but instead breaking away from travel norms and cultivating experiences that count,” says Melissa Ellison, Area Manager at Booking.com. “Be it embracing adventures in the great outdoors by visiting dark sky reserves or a focus on health and wellness, Kiwis will approach travel more mindfully in the coming year. Kiwis are eager to use AI to explore new ways of travelling, with technology and imagination coming together to create a new era of traditions and ultimately make it easier for everyone to experience the world in 2025 and beyond,” she says.
Here’s your insider’s look at the trends shaping the future of luxury travel, Kiwi-style.
Midnight Magic: Chasing the Dark
Trade crowded tourist traps for the serenity of the night sky. “Noctourism” is on the rise, with 64% of Kiwi travellers drawn to New Zealand’s breathtaking dark sky destinations. Imagine starbathing under the Milky Way (75% are interested), guided by expert stargazers (59%), or witnessing once-in-a-lifetime cosmic events (63%). The ultimate indulgence? Over half (55%) want accommodation designed for minimal light pollution; think chic night sky cottages with glass ceilings scattered across iconic locations like Twizel, Waipara, Kaik?ura and Ohakune.
The Ageless Pursuit of Adventure
Baby Boomers are rewriting the rules of ageing, ditching conventional expectations for adrenaline-fueled experiences. Nearly half (48%) crave adventure holidays (up from 20% in 2024), with 25% eager to shatter their comfort zones. Imagine horse riding through rugged landscapes (32%), letting loose at a wine rave (20%), or even canoeing down the world’s largest rivers (18%).
Vintage Voyages
Holiday wardrobes are getting a conscious makeover. Trendy travellers are becoming vintage voyagers, hitting thrift stores to curate unique and sustainable suitcases. Over half (53%) plan to buy their vacation wardrobe during their trip, with 64% of Gen Z leading the charge. A staggering 65% will explore thrift stores on holiday, with 77% already embracing vintage and second-hand finds abroad. It’s not just about style; it’s about savvy, sustainable shopping.
AI-Powered Itineraries
Technology is your new travel concierge. Two-thirds (68%) of Kiwis will leverage tech to make informed decisions, seeking authentic experiences that respect and benefit local communities. AI-powered tools, like Booking.com’s AI Trip Planner, will be essential for crafting personalized, responsible journeys. To protect hidden gems, 48% won’t tag locations on social media, while 68% will use tech to discover less crowded alternatives.
The Gate Escape
Airports are no longer a means to an end. Nearly a quarter (24%) of Kiwi travellers are interested in visiting destinations because of their airports, drawn by unique experiences and facilities (63%). Gen Z and millennials are fuelling this trend, craving sleep pods (58%), spas (43%), and even Michelin-starred restaurants (19%) before they even take off.
Multigen Megatrips
Families are prioritizing experiences over inheritances. Forget squirrelling away savings; nearly half of Kiwi travellers (45%) would rather spend their money on a trip of a lifetime in 2025 than leaving an inheritance. Baby Boomers are especially keen, with 65% happy to foot the bill for their children’s or grandchildren’s adventures.
Boyz II Zen
Booze and bravado are out; wellbeing and vulnerability are in. “Men-only” holidays focused on self-development and mindful connection are gaining traction. Nearly half of Kiwis (48%) would encourage the men in their lives to embark on such a trip, with Gen Z (67%) and millennials (59%) leading the charge. The goal? To switch off from stress (23%), rejuvenate (23%) and prioritize mental health (26%) and personal growth (25%).
Neuroinclusive Navigation
Neurodivergent travellers are demanding inclusive and accessible experiences. Over a third (39%) of neurodivergent Kiwis have had negative travel experiences and feel their options are limited (34%). Technology can play a crucial role in reducing anxiety, with 65% keen on AI tools providing real-time travel updates and suggestions for quieter spaces. Sensory rooms (71%) and noise-cancelling options (81%) are also highly desired.
* Travel Predictions 2025 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,713 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1003 from New Zealand) Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2024.
** Travel Predictions 2024 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,730 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,015 from New Zealand). Respondents completed an online survey in July 2023.
*** Destinations had to be in the top 1,000 most booked on Booking.com between 15 June 2023 and 15 June 2024. The resulting list was then sorted by year-over-year increase.
