Keep up-to-date with the latest updates about the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Airline Updates
Bookings open for Air New Zealand’s new 2020 Auckland-New York flights
Air New Zealand’s non-stop Auckland-New York flight bookings are now open, with the new route commencing 29 October 2020. The new service will be the first non-stop link between Australasia and New York.
First autonomous Airbus passenger jet takes off
Airbus has successfully conducted the first autonomous takeoff by an A350-1000. The company revealed that they have been conducting self-piloting flights at their testing site near the French company's operational headquarters. They have completed more than eight successful take-offs all without needing to touch a button.
Airport Updates
Auckland Domestic Lounge renovations have started
The Air New Zealand Domestic Lounge have begun their staged construction, starting with the barista area and lounge space behind this. During the time the usual menu, self-serve drinks and barista made coffee will still be available, however the lounge will be operating at reduced capacity. With the brand new larger Air New Zealand Auckland Regional Lounge open, members will have the option to access the lounge while the staged construction is underway.
Napier Regional Lounge renovations have started
The Air New Zealand Napier Regional Lounge is closed from 28 January 2020 while the Napier Airport continues with its terminal construction works. A temporary lounge will be open from 29 January 2020 for members to access and is located adjacent to the existing departure gate, to the right of the check-in area. The temporary space will have a similar seating capacity as the previous lounge and offer the same food and beverage selection, Wi-Fi and business facilities.
Singapore begins Terminal 2 expansion
Singapore's Changi Airport is set to begin multi-year expansion works to Terminal 2 to increase capacity and improve traveller's experience. The revamped terminal will incorporate more greenery, self-service travel options, and wider shopping and dining choices.
Hotel Updates
5-star for Rotorua is open now
Accor, New Zealand’s largest hotel operator, has opened its newest premium hotel in Rotorua. The Pullman Rotorua is the first international five-star hotel to open in Rotorua and has been regarded as a dynamic and cosmopolitan space. The hotel offers 130 rooms with panoramic views of the city and lake with a bar, restaurant, gym, and executive lounge.
New brand for Scenic in Auckland
Scenic Hotel Auckland has become part of Scenic Hotel Group's newly created Legacy Collection as it nears completion of a two-year transformation. It has been rebranded as Airedale Boutique Suites, the name reflecting its central city location on the corner of Airedale and Queen Street. The 99-room hotel is a landmark site and has new double-glazing throughout most of the rooms so it's quieter.
Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina now open
The Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina, part of the InterContinental Hotels Group, is now open. The 273-room hotel features a choice of dining venues, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a gym as well as a 460sqm of meeting and event spaces, including a ballroom.
Hyatt focuses on corporate wellness
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has joined forces with meditation and mindfulness app, Headspace. The programme aims to offer guided meditation, mindfulness exercises and sleep content to Hyatt corporate customers.
Marriott International Commits To Sustainability
During the next five years Marriott International, which operates a global portfolio of 7,200 properties under 30 brands, is aiming for:
- 45% decrease in waste to landfill
- 50% decrease in food waste
- 15% decrease in water usage
- 30% decrease in carbon intensity
- Achieve a minimum of 30% renewable energy use
- 100% of hotels certified to a recognised sustainability standard.
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