Phu Quoc records 120% surge from New Zealand, ranks among top 3 emerging destinations

The findings were highlighted in the Air Hacks 2026 annual report by Expedia, as published on Capsule NZ. The report identifies destinations currently gaining strong traction among New Zealand travelers, based on global search and booking data. It also analyzes optimal travel periods, the best time to book flights, and ranks destinations by year-on-year demand growth.

Among the Top 10 fastest-growing international destinations for Kiwi travelers, Phu Quoc ranks third, behind Nha Trang (285%) and Hiroshima (185%), outperforming many established destinations across Canada, Australia, and Europe. The 120% growth rate is more than a statistic - it reflects a clear shift in travel preferences among New Zealanders toward fresh tropical experiences where unspoiled nature and luxury resort living coexist in a secluded setting.

Accustomed to temperate landscapes and wind-swept bays at home, Kiwi travellers are drawn to the striking contrast of Phu Quoc’s tropical beauty. Kem Beach, with its powdery white sand and calm turquoise waters, offers a markedly different experience from the rugged coastlines of the Southern Hemisphere. Hon Thom and May Rut islets invite nature-immersive activities, from coral diving to kayaking through pristine marine ecosystems.

Data from Air Hacks 2026 also indicates that the period from February to mid-March tends to offer more favorable airfares, as global travel demand temporarily eases. This window coincides with one of Phu Quoc’s most attractive seasons, characterized by warm sunshine, calm seas, and crystal-clear waters. Meanwhile, October is identified as the ideal time to plan and book trips for the following year to secure better prices. This alignment between aviation data insights and the island’s seasonal rhythm further reinforces its appeal among long-haul travelers.

While natural beauty is a key advantage, the 120% growth from a distant market like New Zealand is also driven by an increasingly sophisticated hospitality and entertainment ecosystem. Luxury resorts such as JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, known for its imaginative “fantasy university” design, and New World Phu Quoc Resort, inspired by a coastal fishing village, have helped shape the upscale identity of southern Phu Quoc. At Sunset Town, new icons including the Kiss Bridge, the world’s longest three-cable cable car stretching nearly 8 kilometers to Hon Thom, immersive multimedia shows, and nightly fireworks displays held twice every evening throughout the year are redefining the concept of island getaways—extending experiences well beyond daylight hours.

There are currently no direct flights from New Zealand to Phu Quoc, with most travellers transiting through regional aviation hubs. However, the 120 percent growth highlights the strong potential of the long haul market.

Ranking among the top three fastest growing destinations for New Zealand travellers is more than a position on a list. It signals Phu Quoc’s steady move beyond regional appeal toward distant, high value markets. From a tropical island, Phu Quoc is shaping itself into a global destination where unspoiled nature, high end resort design, and large scale entertainment experiences come together to match the expectations of long haul journeys.