Pacific Islands
Tourism Solomons appoints new CEO
Tourism Solomons (TS) has appointed Andrew Nihopara as its new chief executive officer. TS board chairman, Tony Langston says Nihopara’s extensive regional experience, strategic leadership and established profile across the Asia-Pacific tourism sector will be a significant asset as Solomon Islands seeks to strengthen its international tourism presence.
Fiji plant updates
Hideaway Resort and Spa, on Fiji’s Coral Coast, will undergo renovation later this year.
Chris Green, general manager resorts Kimaya Group, says 40 rooms at Hideaway (some 20 minutes drive east of Sigatoka) will be worked on between November through to January 2027. After that, the next 40 of the 115-room inventory will receive the upgrade treatment.
Waya to add pools
Waya Island Resort Fiji will be closed for six weeks from mid-January 2027 while it adds plunge pools to its seven ocean front villas during that time. The resort will also be completely solar powered when it reopens in February.
Strong early bookings for new Fiji hotels
All three new properties joining the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa in the The Yavu Collection are on sale now with the first, The Sebel at Wailoaloa due to welcome guests from 11 September.
New Caledonia hotels join Series by Marriott
Series by Marriott is debuting in New Caledonia in collaboration with Societe Hoteliere de Noumea (SHN), a new chapter in the companies’ relationship of more than three decades.
Sheraton opens in Port Moresby
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has debuted in Papua New Guinea with the opening of Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites.
Fiji strong performer, says Infinity Holidays
Infinity Holidays reports another strong year for Fiji, with year-to-date results showing significant growth across key commercial and booking metrics compared with both the previous year and prior period.
Two new residences for Six Senses Fiji
Six Senses Fiji has added two new residences to its luxury portfolio – Residence 47 and Residence 3. The five-bedroom Residence 47 has direct beach access, indoor and outdoor entertaining spaces and a private pool with an integrated swim-up bar.
Development at Likuri Island Resort Fiji
Likuri Island Resort Fiji has announced a number of new developments, including 14 new beachfront bures to be completed by 2027.
Pacific Tourism’s new website
The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) has upgraded its consumer website, providing an improved platform designed to inspire, inform, and connect global audiences with the diverse destinations of the region.
Interest in VLI-HIR combos stirs as Solomons promotes ‘raw and real’ side of Pacific
Selling combination trips to Solomon Islands and Vanuatu for adventurous clients is a small but growing opportunity for the New Zealand trade, according to Julie Rice, GM of Airline Marketing in New Zealand.
Airline Marketing represents Solomon Airlines here which provides flights from Auckland and through to Port Vila which can be used as a stepping stone to Honiara as well as (working with airline partners) connecting through Brisbane to the Solomons.
‘The destinations are so different and clients can really see another side of the Pacific by visiting both. We’re definitely starting to have agents ask about combining the two.’
Rice’s comments came during a media lunch hosted by Tourism Solomons at Fish in Hilton Auckland last Friday, where representatives from the tourist office emphasised the need for the trade to understand the destination’s key selling points and make sure it is matched to the right kind of customer.
Christchurch to Port Vila famil wraps up
The eight agents on Vanuatu Tourism Office’s (VTO’s) first trade famil following the launch of IE’s new direct CHC-VLI route have returned to New Zealand.
Fiji earns multiple accolades
Fiji has been named the #1 Best Island in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific and #7 Best Island in the World in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2026.
Island and reef day sail with Captain Cook Fiji
Captain Cook Cruises is offering an Island Reef and Day Sail to Kadavu Lailai, its exclusive private island – a scenic one-hour cruise from Port Denarau aboard Spirit of the Pacific or Fiji One.
Big week confirmed for Pacific tourism
The Pacific’s biggest week for the travel and tourism trade returns to Fiji in 2027.
South Pacific Tourism Exchange (SPTE) will be held in Nadi on 5-6 May, followed by the Fiji Tourism Exchange (FTE) 2027 on 7-8 May.
Castaway Island Fiji celebrates 60 years
Castaway Island, Fiji marked its 60th anniversary this week, having first opened on 6 July 1966.
Between now and the end of 2026, Castaway Island, Fiji will wind back the clock, opening its archives to guests.
South Sea Cruises reveals new passenger ferry – Jaguar
South Sea Cruises Group has announced the newest addition to its fleet in Fiji and the final vessel in the company’s two-year fleet renewal programme.
Southern agents taste Vanuatu with IE
Eight retail travel agents from Christchurch were among the passengers on Solomon Airlines’ inaugural direct flight from Christchurch to Bauerfield International Airport in Port Vila, last week.
Seeing Samoa on trade famil with Qantas
Qantas, in partnership with the Samoa Tourism Authority, recently hosted its inaugural Samoa famil, giving a group of New Zealand’s top-selling travel agents experience of the destination firsthand.
Samoa resort extends offer
Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa in Samoa has extended its special offer of up to 30% off.
‘A Tahiti for everyone’: New product, diverse offer and updated specialist platform
The new look Tahiti Specialist Program will be revealed within the next month, with Tahiti Tourisme promising more content, more ways to win points towards fam trips and other rewards, recordings and an easier to use format.
Fiji roadshow updates trade’s knowledge on luxury product
A roadshow focusing in high-end product has served to help fill a knowledge gap in this market about the level of luxury now available in Fiji, says Sonya Lawson, regional director New Zealand Tourism Fiji.
First timers to Fiji
Air New Zealand and Tourism Fiji recently hosted eight agents on a special incentive famil to Fiji as part of the Your Fiji Story Starts Here campaign.
Pick Your Peak adds eco friendly option for clients in Rarotonga’s interior
A new guided hiking option has been launched in Rarotonga, allowing clients to choose their summit and explore the island’s interior at their own pace.
Sebel, Tribe, second Sofitel for Denarau, Fiji
Accor and Yavu Collective, a Fijian-owned investment and development group, have announced a landmark agreement that will see three distinctive hotels in Fiji join Accor’s global network.
Atiu lodge joins Turama’s offerings
Papa Una’s Lodge in Atiu, Cook Islands is a recent addition to the Turama Paacific Travel portfolio.
Savusavu resort reveals new look
Following a multi-million-dollar, resort-wide renewal this year, Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji has released imagery providing a look at revitalised oceanfront bures and renewed shared spaces.
Accessibility, product range impresses agents
Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO) and Solomon Airlines recently hosted eight New Zealand travel agents on a famil to Port Vila giving participants a comprehensive insight into the destination.
Niue to agents: Show off the merch and win
Niue Tourism is giving New Zealand travel advisors the chance win a monthly prize by getting out and about in the world with some of the destination’s regalia.
Fiji’s Turtle Island extends Family Time
Turtle Island Fiji is inviting families to experience its popular Family Time weeks in 2026, with demand prompting a festive season extension.
Niue delivers surprises on Kiwi trade famil
A team of 13 travel professionals and travel trade recently headed to Niue for a three-day action packed famil hosted by Niue Tourism, Scenic Matavai Resort and Air New Zealand.
Team the key to Musket’s 50 years of success
Musket Cove Island Resort & Marina has built a reputation for delivering authentic Fijian experiences, shaped largely by many staff members who have dedicated decades of service to the resort. As the resort celebrates its 50th anniversary, owners Josephine (Josie) Smith-Moffat and Will Moffat highlight some of the people whose stories have become part of its legacy.
Multi-day e-bike trip in Fiji
After 25 years exploring off-road tracks, iBike Fiji has launched the country’s first multi-day e-bike journey; a nine-day, eight-night guided ride covering 154km across Viti Levu and Vanua Levu.
Car rental body adds extra professional layer in Samoa
The formation and development of the Rental Vehicle Association Samoa over the last two years gives agents added confidence in booking cars for their clients in the destination, says Annette Chang, general manager of Moana Rentals.
Musket a hot shot in Fiji for 50 years
In October 1976, owners Dick and Carol Smith opened Musket Cove Island Resort with just 12 bures. Today, it is one of Fiji’s longest-running locally owned resort and marina operations offering 55 air-conditioned bures and villas, day spa, restaurants, licensed bars, and full-service marina.
American Samoa’s new booking platform
American Samoa Visitors Bureau has launched a booking platform where agents can reach tour operators and some niche accommodation providers.
Resort’s changes, plans in focus
New Zealand and Australian trade partners, alongside Tourism Fiji and Fiji Airways, visited Mai Sunset Beach Resort on Naviti Island in the Yasawas during a recent Blue Lagoon famil.
Fiji Gateway Hotel: New rooms, expanded dining
Raffe Hotels & Resorts is alerting trade to the completion of a new accommodation wing at Fiji Gateway Hotel, along with an expanded dining facility.
Chocolate flavour to Denarau visit
Fijiana Cacao is offering one-hour tours with a behind-the-scenes look at the bean-to-bar process. Priced at F$120 adult, F$60 for children, kids under five are free. The experience is equal parts educational and indulgent.
New QF service a talking point at Samoa biz event
Adding additional business class options on the Auckland – Apia route is one of the aspects of the coming Qantas service that is being welcomed by trade, says Rebecca Slee, senior manager sales New Zealand and Pacific Islands.
Kiwi trade gets taste of MV Yasawa Princess II and other Fiji offerings
By Faye Spooner
Blue Lagoon Cruises’ MV Yasawa Princess II has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback by members of the New Zealand travel trade who experienced a two-night cruise on the new vessel over the weekend.
Experiencing Eastern & Oriental
Kate Couling and Davina Bennetto of World Journeys took to the tracks recently aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond train.
Culture, tech, access keys to Samoa’s tourism progress
Samoa’s evolution is evident in more than product development, says Samoa Tourism Authority New Zealand representative Sonny Rivers.
Grand Resort in Rarotonga sets date
The Grand Resort in Rarotonga is set to open on 1 October 2026.
Kiwi trade checks out new luxe villas, fresh product during Samoa’s showcase
A new high-end villa product just out of Apia was the most dramatic indication of a destination refresh for New Zealand trade attending Samoa Tourism Exchange (STE) this week.
Vanuatu launches new trade training resource: IE flights to win as incentive for NZ agents
Vanuatu Tourism Office has launched its new, dedicated online training programme – Welkam Vanuatu.
Beachcomber, Iririki on the up as resort operator looks for more Pacific opportunities
The company behind the recent revitalisation of two popular Pacific Island resorts is seeking to expand its presence in Fiji and Vanuatu.
Tonga’s online training portal: Travel agents can win prizes
The Tonga Tourism Authority has launched a new online training portal for retail travel trade, making it easier for agents to build destination knowledge through bite-sized, practical modules.
IE launches CHC to VLI
Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO) has welcomed the announcement of expanded year-round direct services to Port Vila operated by Solomon Airlines, significantly strengthening air connectivity between New Zealand and Vanuatu.
NZ a focus for new Ahura Resorts sales manager
Ahura Resorts has promoted sales executive Pauliani (Pau) Tubuna to sales manager.
Kiwi agents get taste of the Islands of Tahiti
Tahiti Tourisme hosted a group of New Zealand agents late last year in partnership with Air New Zealand.
New accommodation choice in Rarotonga
Turama Pacific reports that Mango Cottage is a recently opened two-bedroom retreat that blends comfort, privacy and convenience in the village of Ngatangiia, Rarotonga. It is a two-minute drive or a 15-minute walk from Muri Beach, cafés and restaurants.
Niue food and adventure tour
Niue Tourism and Our Pacific have launched a fully inclusive, hosted tour package together for foodies and adventure lovers.
New Cal fam returns
A group of travel agents had the opportunity to visit New Caledonia recently.
The group was hosted at various locations, starting in the ‘wild west’ of New Caledonia, Bourail, with a stay at Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa & Golf Resort. Before checking in and having a welcome dinner at the hotel’s beachfront restaurant, the agents visited the New Zealand Military Cemetery to honour the soldiers who died during World War II.
The following day included a snorkelling excursion along the underwater trail on Poé Beach, followed by lunch at a table d’hote and a visit to the Boulouparis Distillery before returning to Noumea for an overnight stay at Le Méridien Noumea Resort & Spa.
While in the capital, the group explored the city and visited Tjibaou Cultural Centre to learn more about the Kanak culture. The following days included a guided tour of the Blue River Park in the Great South, bathing at Maitre Island and Anse Vata Beach, and site visits to hotels in Noumea, including Château Royal Beach Resort & Spa, DoubleTree by Hilton Maitre Island, and Hilton Noumea La Promenade Residences.
New Caledonia Tourism NZ trade manager, Manuela Nielsen who accompanied the group, says travel agents are essential in helping travellers feel confident that New Caledonia is once again ready to be explored and enjoyed.
Aircalin has recently announced its 2026 travel industry rates from Auckland to Noumea, with the following rates –travel agent fare $269 plus taxes (return), companion $349 plus taxes (return.)
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Vanuatu to launch self-famil programme
The New Zealand travel trade should watch out for the launch of a self-famil programme in Vanuatu next year.
Waya Island Resort adds rooms
Waya Island Resort in Fiji’s southern Yasawa group has increased its inventory from 18 to 25 rooms over its two years of opening.
Hotel Le Lagon Nouméa: value in prime location
A favourite since the 1970s, and renovated in 2022, Hotel Le Lagon Nouméa continues to offer friendly service, modern comfort, and excellent value.
B2B hub for New Caledonia
New Caledonia Tourism has launched its new B2B platform, a centralised hub to support industry professionals with the tools they need to promote and engage with the destination.
