Air New Zealand and Tourism New Zealand have today launched a new safety video ‘Aotearoa, the 8th Wonder of the World’ to help support the domestic tourism industry and put a pre-Christmas smile on our faces.
Who doesn’t love a good Air New Zealand safety video?
As the pioneers of reinventing the ‘necessary but boring’ pre-flight safety refresher, Air New Zealand have famously rolled out one creative hit after another over the years.
And we’ve loved them all.
Expertly blending and showcasing local and international destinations on the airline’s network with humour, safety protocols and popular culture of the moment, the three to four-minute episodes have become highly entertaining videos we’ve wanted to watch whether we’ve been flying somewhere or not.
In the process, Air New Zealand’s safety videos have also become one of the carriers best brand marketing tools, racking up billions of viral views over the years and creating a ton of positive sentiment for New Zealand’s national carrier and the land of the long white cloud itself.
The latest iteration, Aotearoa, the 8th Wonder of the World sees local destinations across New Zealand passionately and creatively put forward their submission to be named the 8th Wonder of the World.
As always, it’s quirky and funny and another fine example of the national airline and tourism board working together for mutual benefit.
Air New Zealand Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty say Aotearoa, the 8th Wonder of the World is a high impact way to promote destinations across New Zealand, from Cape Reinga to Stewart Island, to both domestic and international audiences.
“With borders closed as a result of COVID-19, we’ve seen a significant impact on the New Zealand tourism industry. Around 30 per cent of people flying on our domestic network are usually visitors from overseas. In the absence of international visitors, the safety video is a unique way to stimulate further local demand, benefiting local tourism operators, the New Zealand economy and Air New Zealand employees.” Said Ms Geraghty.
“The video also assists in supporting the recovery of international tourism once borders reopen. We know the decision-making process for visitors to come to New Zealand will be different into the future – so we need to be building the appeal and desire now in international markets in anticipation of borders reopening. It’s important to keep New Zealand as a visitor destination top of mind.”
Leanne Geraghty, Air New Zealand Chief Customer and Sales Officer
Tourism New Zealand Director Commercial and acting CEO René de Monchy says, “Tourism is vital to New Zealand’s recovery and the safety video is another way we are encouraging Kiwis to do something new, by showcasing the amazing range of experiences on offer in Aotearoa. The video also supports our activity offshore to keep New Zealand alive in the hearts and minds of international visitors for when they are able to return.”
Air New Zealand say they have had to be creative with a lot smaller budget this year due to COVID-19, with costs shared between Tourism New Zealand and the airline.
So where is the 8th Wonder of the World? Watch on below to find out.
Discover the 8th wonder of the world
Which Air New Zealand safety video is your favourite? Here’s five beauties to jog your memory.
5. The most epic ever?
4. One of the most colourful
3. Pure genius
2. An old skool classic
1. Rhys hits the silver screen
Thanks to Air New Zealand for keeping us entertained over the years. Keep the good stuff coming and we hope to see you again soon.