Extra flights between Auckland and Papeete, as well as a trend towards offering ‘inclusive’ packages at hotels and resorts are expected to stimulate interest and travel to Tahiti from New Zealand this year.
Jane Merwood, marketing manager of Tahiti Tourisme based in Auckland, says hotels are increasingly offering add-ons such as breakfast and meal plans.
‘We’re trying to get all inclusive packages in promotions and advertising. In these economic times people want to know what they are expecting and they don’t want surprises. Lots of the hotels in Tahiti are picking up on the need to provide this sort of package and we think that will really benefit the destination.’
Robert Thompson, regional director for New Zealand and Australia with Tahiti Tourisme, says the destination is also promoting its appeal as an activity and adventure destination - with much more to offer than just lying on the beach.
‘Kite surfing, trekking, diving, arts tours, cooking and dance classes - those kinds of things and more are available in Tahiti,’ he says. ‘We are promoting those niche markets in New Zealand and encouraging people to take advantage of the wide variety of options Tahiti offers.
‘But of course, if it is a drop and relax by the beach or pool experience that people want that’s fine too.’
A new event on Tahiti’s calendar emphasises the growing choice. The first Tahitian Dance Academy Ori Tahiti Master Class will be held from March 30 to April 3. At the end of the 10 lessons (which incorporate traditional Tahitian dance, ukulele, percussion and song) participants receive a certificate and will also have gained an insight into an integral part of the Tahitian culture and art forms.
The class is broken up into six levels ranging from beginner to master, so will cater for all abilities. There will be a second master class programme in October.
Flights
Meantime Air Tahiti Nui has announced it will increase flight frequency between Auckland and Tahiti / Los Angeles from two to three services weekly, effective April 5. Flight TN102 will depart at 2.25pm each Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, arriving at Tahiti at 8.25pm (local time means it will be the day prior), with continuation to Los Angeles at 9.15am. Flight TN101 will depart Tahiti at 6.50am each Monday, Thursday and Saturday, arriving in Auckland at 10.50am (+1).
Air New Zealand retains two flights a week between Auckland and Papeete.
The first Tahitian Dance Academy Ori Tahiti Master Class will be held from March 30 to April 3
