The high kiwi dollar is changing our choices of travel destination, with overseas journeys significantly more popular.
April data from Statistics NZ showed that there was a 20,000 jump in Kiwis going overseas compared with April 2010 - up 12% to 182,500 "short term travel departures" by NZ residents, compared with 163,000 the previous April.
In fact, around 160,000 departures overseas for an April was the average for the past six years (2005 to 2010 inclusive).
While Australia is still the most popular desination, growth in travel to the 'lucky country' is low; it is Asia that is attracting the biggest growth, and Europe.
China saw a rise of more than 50% of Kiwis visiting in April compared with the same month a year earlier, Malaysia attracted almost double, and Vietnam 130%.
France and the UK also saw jumps of 50%.
With the British pound now costing 'only' NZ$2, and one euro costing just NZ$1.80, traveller's spending power has taken a big boost in the past few months.
It seems even better when the US$ is the travel currency of choice.
In contrast, the Aussie dollar seems expensive.
The local tourism industry is feeling the strain. Occupancy rates for New Zealand tourist accommodation were 36% of all 'guest nights' available, with lower international visitor numbers and fewer locals choosing to vacation in New Zealand. These numbers are down 5% on the same month the previous year.
Australians are making a similar choices.
When planning an overseas holiday, use our handy currency tool to ensure you buy your travel funds at the best rate.
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