Airline Updates
Apple MacBook Pro Laptop Ban
Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar Airways, Singapore Airlines and Thai Airways have all banned Apple MacBook Pro laptops from being brought on board as checked baggage following global concerns about recalled batteries. Passengers will now be required to carry laptops as part of their carry-on luggage and must be switched off for the duration of the flight.
Virgin Australia introduces SSR ‘LOVE’ to Support Nervous Flyers
Virgin Australia put its customers at the heart of everything they do. They discovered that more than 10% of their customers experience high levels of nervousness when travelling. Virgin Australia has spent the past year designing a programme to assist nervous flyers on their journey with them. The programme provides information and tools for these guests in the lead-up to travel, reassuring and heartfelt interactions, and aims to reduce unnecessary stress on the day of travel.
Singapore Airlines introduces free onboard Wi-Fi
Singapore Airlines’ Suites and First-Class passengers can now enjoy unlimited inflight Wi-Fi by connecting to the KrisWorld network. Business Class and Priority Passenger Service (PPS) Club members can also enjoy 100MB of free Wi-Fi.
Airport Updates
Air New Zealand upgrading Auckland Regional Lounge
From 10 August, Air New Zealand will begin upgrading the Auckland Regional Lounge. This is expected to be completed in November 2019. During the final phases of the refurbishment, the lounge will have limited capacity and at peak times will only be available to members. Over this period if you’re travelling using a Lounge eVoucher or travelling with a guest, it is recommended to use the Domestic Lounge.
The new lounge will seat three times as many visitors with different business and quiet zones. Located on level 1, travellers will be able to go directly from the lounge to Valet Parking or undercover car space.
Dunedin Airport opens expanded security screening area
Dunedin Airport has just opened an expanded security screening area with two new advanced body scanners and smart lane x-ray equipment for baggage screening. These enhancements are part of the New Zealand Government’s $100 million (NZD) Aviation Security Service programme to upgrade security technology across all of New Zealand's international airports by mid-2020.
Qantas expands business lounge at Singapore’s Changi Airport
Qantas has unveiled a newly expanded business lounge at Singapore’s Changi Airport. The new business lounge seats for up to 574 guests, spread over 2200sqm. Guests can enjoy new banquette seating, dining chairs and tables, and greater availability of power and data outlets.
Hotel Updates
Oaks Hotels set to open in Wellington
Oaks Hotels are welcoming their newest property in Wellington this September, the Oaks Wellington. The new nine-story property will feature 226 rooms with facilities including a fitness centre, meeting rooms, restaurant and bar.
Hilton Auckland renovates two months on from brands 100th anniversary
Hilton Auckland has completed the renovation of its rooms on the eighth floor, two months on from the brands 100th anniversary. The refurbished rooms on Level Eight offer views of the harbour and city, with 21 modern rooms and suites.
Transport Updates
Uber expands operations in New Zealand
Uber is expanding its operations to seven new cities in New Zealand in October. The new cities Uber will be available in is Rotorua, Taupo, Napier, Hastings, New Plymouth, Palmerston North and Nelson. This will join the cities Uber is currently available in; Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown, Christchurch, Tauranga, Dunedin and Hamilton.
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