Middle East conflict having mixed effects on travel numbers, New Zealand data shows

Some Kiwis are changing their travel habits and future plans as a result of the current Middle East conflict, but a substantial impact is yet to be felt from domestic or international travellers, recent surveys have shown. 

A Westpac survey of over 500 New Zealand customers found that 14 percent had changed, delayed or cancelled international travel plans, with 15 percent changing or cancelling domestic travel.  

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A slightly higher number, at 16 percent and 19 percent respectively, were considering changing existing international and domestic travel plans over the next six months. 

“Rising prices are clearly weighing on New Zealanders’ minds, but what’s encouraging is they’re so far adapting well and making a plan to get through it,” said Westpac NZ CEO Catherine McGrath.  

“Every household will be adjusting and making their own choices about which types of spending to prioritise, but our research shows some broad patterns. 

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“The most notable change between the two surveys is the increase in people cutting back on non-essential spending from 28 percent to 43 percent, while 51percent are now driving less compared to 41percent in March.   

“We can see these actions showing up in our own data.”  

“For example, Westpac customers have reduced their card spend on the likes of clothing and restaurant meals to offset their higher fuel costs since the conflict began.” 

International travel into New Zealand is also being impacted, with RNZ reporting that The Tourism Export Council’s rapid snapshot survey showed increased trip cancellations from the UK and Europe.  

Of the approximately 70 respondents, more than three quarters had cancellations by travellers from these regions in March and April. 

As yet, though, there seemed to be little impact outside of Europe, the survey said.  

However, the Travel Agents Association New Zealand (TAANZ) said a survey of their members showed only three percent of bookings through accredited agents were being cancelled as of early April. 

Most of the impacted travel, they said, was able to be rerouted by the agent on behalf of the customer (61percent). Of the cancelled flights, well over half (66 percent) were cancelled by customers rather than airlines, due to their global concerns. 

TAANZ CEO Julie White said the results reinforce the value of professional travel advice. 

“Despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainty, Kiwis still want to travel but they are recognising that they need an expert on their side to help.”  

“What we’re seeing is a clear trend: travellers are seeking out trusted advisors to help navigate changing conditions, reroute journeys, and provide confidence every step of the way. Travelling is still viable for many.” 

The TAANZ survey found that 82 percent of travellers were choosing to avoid travel through the Middle East.  

Ms White commented that this is where travel agents are really coming into play, being intimately knowledgeable on the industry and able to provide strong recommendations that are keeping Kiwis moving. 

“It is wise to avoid zones of conflict, we can help with that.”

“But there are other complexities to note; 35 percent of our agents are seeing reduced availability for flights for future bookings.”  

“However, we also understand where the strongest supply is and how best to navigate this. For instance, Singapore Airlines have increased flights into New Zealand and Australia, giving greater connection into Asia and further into Europe.”