Tourism New Zealand is reinforcing its long-term commitment to India – one of New Zealand’s priority growth markets – with this year’s edition of Kiwi Link India, its flagship travel trade event aimed at elevating New Zealand’s status as a premier, year-round destination for Indian travellers.
The comprehensive trade event took place in Goa from 20–23 July; and brought together 75 leading travel buyers from across India and 49 New Zealand tourism businesses. This year’s event has been designed to strengthen commercial partnerships, build trade capability and increase consideration for New Zealand as a year-round holiday destination. The flagship event continues its momentum, as New Zealand recorded Indian arrivals at 125% of 2019 levels in the year ended May 2026. Visitor expenditure (in YE March 26) climbed to NZD229M, nearly 49% higher than pre-pandemic levels.
Commenting on the success of this year’s event, Gregg Wafelbakker, Regional Director Asia, Tourism New Zealand, says, “The Indian traveller is looking beyond traditional holidays towards richer, more immersive experiences across culture, adventure, culinary discovery, and wellness. New Zealand delivers this holiday experience, and more. Kiwi Link India reflects Tourism New Zealand’s commitment to working closely with our trusted travel trade partners to unlock demand, deepen relationships, share market intelligence, and inspire confidence in promoting destination New Zealand.”
Kiwi Link India builds on more than two decades of Tourism New Zealand’s trade engagement in India, consistently building commercial relationships, deepening destination knowledge, negotiating new business, and helping curate experiences that reflect the evolving preferences of Indian travellers.
As Tourism New Zealand continues to invest in the Indian market, Kiwi Link remains a cornerstone of its trade engagement strategy, creating stronger industry connections, expanding destination knowledge and supporting the travel trade in converting growing interest into future visitation.
Shreya Bansal is a reporter at TravTalk India, covering the travel and tourism industry. She brings a keen eye for emerging trends, trade developments, and the stories shaping the travel landscape. Through in-depth reporting and on-ground insights, she connects industry stakeholders with news that matters. Beyond travel, Shreya has a growing interest in the premium lifestyle space, particularly the world of fine jewellery and is eager to explore the craftsmanship, culture, and commerce that define luxury living.