Auckland has earned two prestigious accolades at the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) Sky Choice Travel Awards, securing the title of "Destination of the Year" and seeing Auckland Airport crowned "International Airport of the Year."

The January awards, assessed by a panel of travel experts, media professionals, and frequent travellers, acknowledged 120 standout brands across aviation, hospitality, and destinations.

Auckland's recognition was based on its exceptional tourism offerings, growth in global aviation links, and its vibrant cultural scene.

Nick Hill, Chief Executive of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, expressed pride in the achievements, highlighting the city's commitment to excellence in providing a world-class experience for visitors.

"This recognition not only reflects the hard work and dedication of our team but also underscores Auckland’s growing stature as a leading global destination,” Hill said.

“We’re excited to continue promoting Auckland’s stunning landscapes, rich Māori culture, and diverse cuisine.”

Key strengths in Auckland’s submission included its cultural diversity, with over 200 ethnic communities, and its wide array of events such as sailing regattas, music festivals, and Māori celebrations.

Auckland's natural beauty was also spotlighted, from its three harbours and 48 volcanic cones to its pristine beaches and nature reserves, offering outdoor experiences like sailing, surfing, and hiking.

Auckland’s aviation connections to China were another highlight, with direct flights to seven major cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

These strong air links have cemented Auckland’s position as a key global destination, further bolstered by the city’s recognition in Lonely Planet’s "Best in Travel 2022" and ranking third in TripAdvisor’s South Pacific region awards.

As the recipient of the "Destination of the Year" award, Auckland joins a prestigious list of destinations vying for recognition from the Chinese travel industry.

This award marks a significant milestone in the city's tourism sector, reaffirming Auckland’s appeal to international visitors and its growing global influence.

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