Asia's most beautiful island among favorite travel destinations for New Zealanders

While destinations such as Queensland, Fiji, London, the Cook Islands, and Sydney have traditionally topped the list, emerging hotspots now include Tokyo, Bali, and Hanoi, the company said.

David Coombes, CEO of House of Travel, said that his firm has seen a significant 130% year-on-year increase in holiday bookings to Hanoi by New Zealanders alongside a 32% rise for Bali and 11% for Tokyo.

"This growth reflects a shift in Kiwi travel appetites, as families grow confident about exploring new destinations, where the New Zealand dollar has strong value on the ground," he commented.

Despite the shift, Fiji remained a popular choice, the agency said, offering parents the chance to enjoy a well-earned 'flop and drop' vacation, while their little ones were kept entertained in the renowned kids' clubs.

"Nearly 230,000 Kiwis visited Fiji last year, accounting for around 25% of total arrivals," Coombes said. "Of those, over 50% had visited at least once before, and about a third returned for their third visit or more."

Bali was named Asia's most beautiful island at this year's annual Reader's Choice Awards by DestinAsian magazine.

In October last year, the island was honored with the same recognition by readers of Condé Nast Traveler in its Readers' Choice Awards.

Bali welcomed 6.3 million international visitors in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. This year it aims to attract 6.5 million tourists.