Travelling to Europe on a regular basis?

If this is the case, then we suggest you take a look at what Lufthansa has to offer.  If you are currently spending $50,000 or more per year on travel to Europe, you will qualify for Corporate airfares.  See here for the amazing benefits a Lufthansa Corporate Contract can provide.

Duxton has conferencing all wrapped up

The Duxton Hotel Wellington has some of the largest conference facilities in Wellington, including the largest ballroom.  They are offering a fantastic Day Delegate Package that, from $55 per delegate per day includes morning and afternoon tea, business buffet lunch, venue rental, whiteboard, flip chart, pads, pens, mints, water and dedicated staff before and during events. 

Duxton are also offering great deals on conferencing packages at both Duxton Hotel Auckland & Duxton Hotel Okawa Bay.  See here for more details or talk your Executive Travel consultant.

Northern gateway toll road

The new toll road between Orewa & Puhoi is now fully operational.  AVIS has asked us to remind our clients that you are unable to pay AVIS this toll fee.  Please click here to see how you can pay for using this toll road and for more information.  It is very important the toll is paid within 3 days of using the road, if  unpaid the NZTA will advise AVIS who will then pass on your details.  In short, by the time you see the bill it could be an additional $50 in each direction because both AVIS and NZTA will apply an administration fee.

Hong Kong Update

Recently a number of our consultants visited Hong Kong flying Cathay Pacific. The trip was a chance for each of them to update their knowledge on the destination itself and the accommodation on offer.   
Hong Kong is a kaleidoscope of life: a sophisticated fusion of East and West; a city of diversity where new and old meet at every turn. From your first sight of Hong Kong you will marvel at the contrasts that have made Hong Kong one of the world’s major attractions. Step on to any street and you’ll be swept away in a wave of commotion, smells and clamour. The shopping is legendary and the cuisine superb. There’s no other destination quite like Hong Kong!
See here for our teams top travel tips including all the essential things to do along with those things they feel are best avoided.

Qantas baggage allowance changes

Qantas' new checked baggage allowance, effective immediately is designed to align its domestic and international allowances and provide greater consistency with other airlines.
Excluding services to the US, all checked baggage allowances will be based on weight.  Domestically, in New Zealand and Australia economy passengers' total free baggage allowance will be 23kgs, regardless of the number of bags.  An AU$10 excess will reportedly apply to each additional 1kg.
Internationally (non-US), Economy and Premium Economy passengers' total free allowance has been increased from 20kg to 23kg, regardless of the number of bags - including the Tasman route.  
There are no changes to checked baggage allowances for First or Business class passengers internationally, but there's a 2kg reduction from 32kg to 30kg on domestic services.
Customers travelling in Economy or Premium Economy to the US remain under the piece system with a new free baggage allowance of 2 peices at 23kg per piece.  A flat rate of AU$50 per peice is charged for any peice exceeding 23kg and the maximum baggage weight is 32kg. 

A Wellington update

Susan (our Sales & Marketing Manager) recently took a small group of clients to Wellington.  During their visit they overnighted at the James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor and took advantage of 2 unique experiences in Wellington - Boomrock and a Zest Food tour.  Read here to get Susan's view.

The APEC business travel card

Time is precious when you travel overseas for business, so why wait around in queues?  The APEC Business Travel Card provides accredited business people with streamlined access to participating APEC countries. Cardholders enjoy:

• express immigration clearance through special APEC lanes on arrival and departure
• no requirement to apply for visas or entry permits
• multiple entry to participating countries for a stay of up to 90 days on each visit.

The card is valid for three years and is based on a unique electronic pre-clearance system, providing members with VIP entry into 17 APEC countries. Used in conjunction with your NZ passport (you must be a NZ citizen to apply), the card is eligible for travel to:

Australia             Indonesia                   Philippines                 Peru
Brunei                 Darussalam              Japan                          Chile
Malaysia             Republic of Korea     Chinese Taipei           New Zealand
Singapore          Hong Kong                 Papua New Guinea   Thailand
People's Republic of China                  Vietnam

For further information click here or talk to your Executive Travel consultant.