Representatives of Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and Gold Coast were all in New Zealand this week, for activity which included an end of year celebration with Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) and key business partners.
The optimism comes as TEQ announces that Queensland is Calling will be extended to four cities next year. The dates are Auckland 23 March 2026, Wellington 24 March, Christchurch 25 March and Dunedin 26 March.
An earlybird prize draw will include a return luxury holiday for two in each city for agents who arrive at or before 4.20pm. (Registration details in the New Year)
Craig Davidson, TEQ CEO, says New Zealand remains Queensland’s number one international holiday market, with 490,000 Kiwi visitors in the year ending June 2025.
‘That strong performance reflects the deep connection Kiwis have with Queensland, and we expect this momentum to continue into 2026.
‘This year, our focus is on trade education and famils, giving agents the tools and first-hand experiences they need to sell Queensland with confidence. Our brand platform, That Holiday Feeling, helps tell Queensland’s story in a way that inspires and generates demand.’
Kate Fulton, New Zealand and western markets specialist at Experience Gold Coast, says the last two quarters saw record Kiwi visitation and took numbers beyond those seen in 2019.
She says the time is right to re-educate the trade on how GC is evolving – especially in terms of luxury and high-end product.
The Andaz Gold Coast will see the luxury brand (part of Hyatt) debut in Australia. It is set to open in Q1 next year and be located in The Star Gold Coast precinct in Broadbeach. Significant redevelopment at Marina Mirage will include a Luxury Collection resort, Ritz Carlton and St Regis.
Emily Zinowki, trade and international manager at Visit Sunshine Coast points out that the 180-room Avani Mooloolaba will open in April 2026 and will be the first four to four-and-a-half star hotel to open in the region for 40 years.
‘It will include a rooftop pool, restaurant with an ocean view and full-service breakfast. It’s right in the heart of Mooloolaba and we expect it to resonate with Kiwi trade and their clients.’
At the luxury end of the market, the Sofitel in Noosa has rebranded as Elysium after a multi-million dollar refurbishment.
Callum Wood, GM destination, marketing and brand at Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA), says the city is expecting big interest from Kiwi League fans when the Warriors meet the Broncos during the NRL Magic Round in May.
‘It is going to be a big year of league for us because we are also hosting the Rugby League World Cup final in November.’
Wood says the trade should watch for the opening of a new tour at Moreton Bay with an oyster and champagne focus. Soul Elements, a new day spa in the Scenic Rim opened recently giving a new wellness option.
