Kiwi Travellers Rush Cheap Airfares To Fiji

Mediacom-Release-Fiji-Travel-Bureau

Bargain hunting New Zealand travellers are giving Foreign Minister Phil Goff the " thumbs down".

Despite Mr Goff's criticism of Fiji's " before and after" television campaign, 10,000 New Zealanders have so far forked out just on $5 million for cheap airfares to the Pacific Islands nation.

Fiji's international airline, Air Pacific, and Air New Zealand introduced $499 return airfares 10 days ago, around $400 off normal peak fares.

Resorts are offering discounts of between 30 to 40 per cent.

Both airlines are reporting very strong demand for seats. Once the $499 seats on flights are snapped up, other seats are still available at $599.

Travellers have until September 30 to pay for their tickets and must complete travel by December 15.

Fiji Visitors Bureau marketing director, Bill Whiting, said from Suva today that the response from New Zealanders to the heavily discounted airfares and accommodation has " exceeded all our expectations."

Mr Whiting defended the current television campaign, saying it reflected the fact that Fiji's tourism experience remained unchanged, despite the political turmoil since the May 19 coup.

ENDS

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