Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland has received two big recognitions from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), with Auckland winning "Destination of the Year" and Auckland Airport named the "International Airport of the Year”.

The selection process for the January awards was conducted by a panel of industry experts, media professionals and seasoned travellers. Evaluations were based on professional assessments, third-party travel data and editorial reviews, resulting in the recognition of 120 outstanding brands across aviation, hospitality and destinations.

"We are honoured to receive this recognition from the Civil Aviation Administration of China,” says Nick Hill, Chief Executive of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, Auckland Council’s economic and cultural agency.

“Being awarded 'Destination of the Year' and having Auckland Airport named 'International Airport of the Year' underscores our commitment to excellence and our dedication to offering a world-class experience to all who visit and travel through Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. This recognition not only reflects the hard work and dedication of our team but also highlights Auckland's growing prominence on the global stage as a leading travel destination. We are excited to continue promoting Auckland's beautiful landscapes, rich indigenous Māori culture and our world class food and diverse cuisine to visitors from around the world," says Hill.

The following key strengths were highlighted in the submission for Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland:

Cultural diversity and vibrant activities

  • With over 200 ethnic communities, Auckland is a melting pot of cultures.
  • Home to world-class events, including sailing regattas, sporting championships, music shows, food festivals and Māori cultural celebrations.
     

Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor experiences

  • Auckland boasts three major harbours, 48 volcanic cones, pristine beaches and nature reserves.
  • Offers diverse outdoor experiences like sailing, surfing, hiking and exploring ancestral mountains.

China-Auckland aviation connections and air services

  • Aviation links between China and Auckland have now exceeded pre-pandemic capacity.
  • Auckland is directly connected to seven major mainland Chinese cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Haikou and Hangzhou.

 

Global recognition and honours

  • Auckland was named the top city in Lonely Planet’s "Best in Travel 2022".
  • Ranked third in TripAdvisor’s "Travelers’ Choice" awards for the South Pacific region.

The Sky Choice Travel Awards are organised by CAAC Inflight Magazine, which is the official media body of the CAAC. It’s one of the most widely read in-flight publications in China, reaching aviation professionals, government officials, and frequent travellers.

Find more details here:
English version
Chinese version

ENDS

 

For further information please contact

Chris Gregory

Media Manager, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited
M +64 27 292 3601
E chris.gregory@aucklandnz.com

Rebecka Keeling
Communications Advisor, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited
M +64 27 216 1526
E rebecka.keeling@aucklandnz.com

 

About us: Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s economic and cultural agency committed to making our region a desirable place to live, work, visit, invest and do business. To find out more visit aucklandunlimited.com