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Experience the Southern Way by flying into one airport and out of another.The Southern Airports Alliance, comprising Queenstown, Invercargill, and Dunedin airports, in collaboration with eight southern Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs), has launched an innovative travel initiative under the “Southern Way.” This partnership, supported by Air New Zealand, is designed to make it easier for visitors to explore the Lower South Island by allowing them to fly into one airport and out of another.

The Southern Way campaign’s slogan, “One trip to see it all”, builds on the RTOs’ efforts to promote longer-stay, lower-impact itineraries. Visitors are encouraged to use Air New Zealand’s multistop booking tool to fly into one of the three airports, rent a vehicle to explore the region, and then fly out of another airport. This approach aims to spread tourism benefits across the region, reducing pressure on popular hotspots and supporting the aspirations of local communities for sustainable tourism.

Southern Way: A New Vision for Tourism

A dedicated Southern Way page on the Air New Zealand website provides itinerary suggestions and inspiration to help visitors plan and book a trip that suits their timeframes and interests. This new initiative is not just about making travel easier; it’s about promoting a more profound, more enriching travel experience.

Queenstown Airport Acting Chief Executive Todd Grace expressed his excitement about the initiative. “We’re thrilled by the opportunities this opens up. By spreading visitors widely around the region, we can support the regenerative tourism aspirations of our community and the lower South alongside Dunedin and Invercargill airports,” he said.

Southern Way Project Manager Sanae Herd highlighted the initiative’s community-focused approach. “Our communities have told us that they want tourism developed and managed to deliver longer stay, lower impact visitation that shares cultural and economic benefits across the wider regions. All of the RTOs involved are excited to have Air New Zealand and the Southern Airports Alliance fully engaged with this approach,” Herd said.

Exploring the Southern Treasures

Dunedin Airport Chief Executive Daniel De Bono emphasized the variety of attractions available to visitors. “Dunedin itself is full of amazing attractions, from its renowned heritage buildings to rare wildlife. From there, visitors can travel through Waitaki, Clutha, Central Otago, or down to Southland,” De Bono said.

Invercargill Airport Chief Executive Stuart Harris also praised the benefits of the one-way travel model. “There are so many surprises for people to discover here. Southland has some stunning scenery and the open-jaw itinerary encourages visits to the beautiful Catlins, Rakiura, and Riverton,” he added.

Seamless Travel Experience

Air New Zealand Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty explained how the campaign simplifies planning a comprehensive road trip. “We fly to 20 domestic destinations which serve as gateways to all of Aotearoa’s beautiful regions. The Southern Way is the perfect example of how travelers can fly into one airport, and fly out of another, getting to experience multiple destinations in one trip. To make the journey even smoother, customers can book their rental car through us at the same time as booking their flights, and earn Airpoints Dollars on the hire,” Geraghty said.

Your Next Adventure Awaits

For those looking for inspiration, the Southern Way website offers information on routes to follow and experiences to enjoy. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant cultural scenes, the breathtaking landscapes, or the unique wildlife, the Southern Way initiative promises an unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s southern gems.

Incredible scenery, great hospitality, great adventures – that’s the Southern Way! For more information and to start planning your next trip, visit the Southern Way page on Air New Zealand’s website.

 

 

 

Written by: Soo James

 

 

 

 

 

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