Air New Zealand customers free to use electronic devices during flight

Air New Zealand customers will be some of the first in the Asia Pacific region to be able to use their handheld portable electronic devices in non-transmitting mode for the entire duration of their flights following approval from the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority.

From July 16, the airline will allow the use of handheld portable electronic devices including tablets, smartphones, e-readers and mp3 players during all phases of flight provided the devices are in flight mode.

Previously customers could not use their devices during the taxi, take-off and landing phases of flight.
Initially this option will be available to customers travelling on domestic and international services operated by Airbus A320 and Boeing 787-9, 777-200 and 777-300 aircraft with plans to include Air New Zealand’s regional turbo prop and Boeing 767-300 fleets over time, subject to regulatory approval.

“We are living in a digital age where the majority of our customers use electronic devices while travelling,” said Air New Zealand’s general manager customer experience, Carrie Hurihanganui.
“Today’s announcement will give customers further freedom to use their handheld devices to take photos, listen to music or watch pre-loaded movies gate to gate.
“Air New Zealand prides itself on being a leader in innovation and technology and continues to actively explore what can be done to make the travel experience easier and more enjoyable for our customers.”

Royal itinerary revealed | by DMC Australia & New Zealand

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, aka Kate and Wills, along with their baby Prince George, are coming to Australia and New Zealand in April 2014, with Sydney featuring heavily on the 10-day itinerary.

The tour will include Sydney’s Royal Easter show, a walk around Uluru, a yacht race on Auckland Harbour, a visit to the Blue Mountains and the Anzac day march and service at War Memorial in Canberra. Other highlights include a jet boat trip in Queenstown.
“We’re absolutely thrilled and delighted to take the Royal couple for a spin on a trip we’re sure they’ll remember as part of their New Zealand tour,” said David Kennedy, Southern regional manager of Ngai Tahu Tourism.
“The Royal couple are known for their love of the outdoors and sports, so we think they’ll really enjoy the chance to experience a world-leading Queenstown adventure tourism operation.”

What else to do in Sydney or Queenstown? Here are some more ideas:

Incentive travel, and pre and post touring ideas in Sydney, Australia >>

Incentive travel, and pre and post touring ideas in Queenstown, New Zealand >>