Brand USA, the destination marketing organisation for the US, has announced the return of its New Zealand Trade Expos in partnership with Air New Zealand and United Airlines.
Registrations are now open and are free for travel agents. Last year’s event sold out quickly, so agents are encouraged to register early to secure their place at one of the year’s most anticipated travel industry events.
The Brand USA Trade Expos will take place in Auckland on 10 February and in Wellington on 11 February, marking the event’s return to the capital city. It will be presented in partnership with Air New Zealand and United Airlines, who return as proud sponsors in 2025, to support this vital travel industry event.
“New Zealand is a key market for overseas visitation to the USA, with travellers showing a strong appetite for diverse and unique experiences,” Brand USA senior vice president, global markets & chief trade and product development officer, Malcolm Smith, said. “Brand USA is dedicated to bringing events like Expo to New Zealand travel agents – who play a pivotal role in driving Kimi visitation to the USA, and we want to empower them with the knowledge, resources, and connections to inspire and assist their clients in planning travel to the USA.”
The 2025 Expos will feature a new format with an extended marketplace session, giving agents more quality time to engage with exhibitors. there will also be new first-time exhibitors, including Explore Louisiana, Visit Austin, and Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, alongside long-standing returning partners. The event allows agents the opportunity to expand their knowledge of USA destinations to better service their clients.
“Brand USA’s Trade Expos provide an essential platform for fostering meaningful connections between New Zealand travel agents and US destinations,” Smith added. “These events reflect our commitment to the New Zealand market, supporting agents as they deepen their knowledge of the USA and strengthen relationships with exhibitors from across the US. This approach ensures they are well-prepared to create exceptional travel experiences for their clients.”
“Air New Zealand is thrilled to once again support the Brand USA Trade Expo in Auckland and Wellington in 2025,” Air New Zealand general manager global sales, Tim Swan, said. “As proud major sponsors, alongside our joint venture partners United Airlines, we remain committed to strengthening our ties with the United States of America, which remains a key market for Air New Zealand. With such a diverse range of amazing destinations and unique experiences throughout the USA, we anticipate continued growth in demand in travel to the USA from the New Zealand market, and we look forward to continuing to connect Kiwis with their next great adventure.”
