Global Travel Trends: Insights from the 25th Holiday Barometer

Discover what’s influencing New Zealand holidaymakers in 2026 with Redion’s latest Holiday Barometer. In February, we asked 26,000 respondents across 26 countries what travel means to them- from growing safety concerns impacting destination choices to the rise of AI in trip planning and booking. Read the full report to understand the insights shaping the New Zealand tourism landscape.

“The Holiday Barometer’s 2026 Travel Trends report is showing Kiwis growing commitment to responsible and purpose-led travel, with many actively seeking ways to reduce their environmental footprint while still prioritising meaningful experiences with family and friends. At the same time, AI is a new layer to the travel planning journey, acting as a support tool rather than a substitute, as Kiwis continue to prioritise trust, credibility and human judgement throughout their decision-making. Global uncertainty and cost pressures are also reshaping behaviour. Travellers are not stepping away from travel, but are adapting by choosing familiar, lower-risk destinations and taking a more deliberate approach to ensure every trip serves its purpose.”

Justin Sebire

CEO of Redion in Australia and New Zealand

Key Insights Discovered

Domestic travel is the way to travel responsibly

With greater distance from other destinations and higher outbound travel costs, Kiwis are more inclined to holiday locally (50% vs. 34% in Australia), reinforcing both affordability and environmentally conscious behaviours.

Key Insights Discovered

Kiwis Keep AI at Arm’s Length

AI in travel is still finding its feet in New Zealand, with just 24% on board and many others held back by trust concerns (55%).

Key Insights Discovered

Green is the new “IT” travel trend

70% of Kiwis prefer green certified accommodation, while 60% are even willing to change their behaviour to reduce their carbon impact while travelling.

Key Insights Discovered

Uncertainty is driving “stay closer to home”

Travellers aren’t stopping, they’re adapting by:

Choosing closer destinations with zero intent for long-haul flights,

45% are favouring familiar, lower-risk options; and

90% are prioritising their wallets by keeping affordability front of mind.

So, what happens now?

With tensions in the Middle East showing signs of stabilisation and travel corridors reopening, we’ll likely see New Zealand travellers begin to move from hesitation back to consideration. While recent events disrupted confidence, particularly around transit hubs and long-haul routing, traveller sentiment will gradually normalise as airlines restore schedules and governments update travel advisories so customers may now also be eligible to purchase travel insurance.

Kiwis remain highly aware of geopolitical risks, but they’re also pragmatic, well-informed, and adaptable. Rather than stepping away from travel entirely, many are recalibrating and choosing closer-to-home destinations, favouring familiar routes, and prioritising flexibility. This creates a clear opportunity for brands to provide guidance, reassurance, and practical value.

In periods of uncertainty, the role of trust becomes more critical than ever. Customers are increasingly leaning on expert advice, itinerary flexibility, and real-time support- areas where human-led decisions will take priority.

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Survey methodology

Redion, formerly Europ Assistance, has been conducting annual Holiday Barometers every year since 2001 The survey, conducted by Ipsos, gathered insights from 26,000 respondents across 26 countries (Europe, North America, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand), offering a global snapshot of evolving travel behaviours—highlighting what’s changing, what’s trending, and what it means for New Zealand travellers.

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Media enquiries

Georgia Trainor
Marketing and Communications Coordinator

P: 0451 015 179
E: georgia.trainor@ea26.john-brightman.com