TLDR: A recent report reveals that a significant majority of New Zealand consumers are keen to leverage Artificial Intelligence for future travel planning, with 79% expressing interest. However, despite this enthusiasm, a high degree of caution and a notable lack of full trust in AI persist, with only 3% fully trusting the technology. Kiwis primarily view AI as a supportive tool to enhance human decisions rather than replace them, valuing its ability to make travel easier, more efficient, and to provide recommendations for sustainable travel.
New Zealanders are increasingly open to integrating Artificial Intelligence into their travel planning, according to a new report. A substantial 79% of consumers in New Zealand have indicated a desire to use AI for their upcoming trips. This enthusiasm is tempered by a prevailing sense of caution and a significant trust deficit, as only a mere 3% of New Zealand consumers fully trust AI. Furthermore, just 6% are comfortable with AI making independent decisions without human oversight.
The report highlights that AI is predominantly perceived as a supportive resource, designed to enhance human choices rather than to autonomously replace them. The majority of respondents, 53%, believe that AI can streamline travel and boost efficiency. A notable 63% appreciate AI-generated recommendations that help them avoid overcrowded destinations or peak travel periods. Additionally, 48% of those surveyed expressed a desire for AI to assist in identifying experiences that positively impact the communities they visit, reflecting a growing demand for sustainable travel practices.
In terms of specific AI applications, 37% of Kiwis utilize AI for translation purposes, 39% for activity suggestions, 37% for finding dining options, and 40% for navigation in unfamiliar areas while on holiday. Post-trip, 34% of respondents use AI to edit their holiday photos. Interestingly, AI assistants have garnered more trust for travel advice (13%) compared to social media influencers (9%).
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Despite the increasing adoption, trust remains a significant hurdle. The data indicates that while Kiwis are embracing AI’s utility, they are doing so with a clear preference for human involvement and oversight, underscoring the need for continued development in building confidence in AI systems.


