AUSTRALIA AND NZ’S DIGITAL PASSENGER CARD

The first group of Qantas passengers have completed an Australia Travel Declaration – a digital alternative to the paper incoming passenger card (IPC) – after the pilot program was launched for travellers arriving into Australia from New Zealand this week.

The pilot is an initiative of the Trans-Tasman Seamless Travel Group, which was established to deliver on the Australian and New Zealand’s Prime Ministers’ commitment to explore ways to move closer to seamless travel between the two countries.

Their vision is to work towards ‘contactless travel’ whereby passengers can rely on digital credentials and facial recognition for quicker and easier progression through key steps at airports.

Following months of planning and development between the ABF, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) and Qantas, the Australia Travel Declaration pilot commenced on Monday (21 October 2024).

Eligible passengers were invited to complete the digital form in the Qantas app prior to travelling on QF126 from Auckland – the first flight of the pilot – which landed at Brisbane Airport about 5pm.

After completing the declaration, those passengers received a digital pass with a QR code through the Qantas app and to their nominated email, which was shown to ABF and DAFF officers for swift clearance through biosecurity and border controls.

ABF Commissioner Michael Outram said it was exciting to be on the way to ditching the paper card – starting with flights across the Tasman.

“A significant amount of work has gone into getting this pilot off the ground, and I’d like to commend the efforts and contribution of Australian and New Zealand agencies and companies to get us to here,” Commissioner Outram said.

“This is just one of a number of border modernisation initiatives being co-designed and co-financed by government and industry, and the importance of this opportunity cannot be overstated.

 “As we prepare to welcome the world to Brisbane for the 2032 Olympics, we are striving to be the most innovative leaders at the border, and this is the first of many big steps in the right direction.”

DAFF Deputy Secretary of Biosecurity Justine Saunders said biosecurity was a shared responsibility.

“We are pleased to see the biosecurity process becoming more integrated and streamlined while still effectively protecting Australia from harmful biosecurity pests and diseases,” Ms Saunders said.

“The success of this pilot program is a step in the right direction towards our shared end goal of achieving streamlined border clearances.”

Qantas Group Chief Customer and Digital Officer, Catriona Larritt said “Qantas customers will be the first to experience this great initiative through the Qantas App, in partnership with the Australian Government.

“This is only an initial step as part of a larger project to make the arrival experience more seamless for our customers.”

Brisbane Airport CEO, Gert-Jan de Graaff, said “This trial is an important step forward, moving Australia closer to the experience of the world’s leading travel hubs.

“We’re proud to play a part in shaping the future of seamless travel for everyone.”

Eligible passengers – adults, travelling solo, who are Qantas customers and willing to use a SmartGate – on flights to Brisbane from Auckland (initially the afternoon flight) will be invited to complete their declarations through the Qantas app, up to 72 hours prior to departure.

The pilot will expand to flights departing other New Zealand cities – including Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown – to Brisbane in the coming days and weeks.

This will likely also expand to more Australian airports during the pilot stage, while further international locations and other airlines will be considered as the program progresses beyond the pilot stage.

 

Hilton Hotel Hobart

HOBART GETS IT FIRST HILTON HOTEL

Located in the heart of Hobart, DoubleTree by Hilton Hobart is slated for opening within 2024.

Situated within walking distance to Hobart’s Central Business District (CBD), the waterfront, and the vibrant Salamanca Place, the new hotel promises to be a standout addition to the city’s hospitality landscape.

The new DoubleTree by Hilton Hobart will offer guests a blend of modern comfort and convenience. The hotel will feature 206 well-appointed rooms, a restaurant and bar, two versatile meeting rooms, an indoor swimming pool and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. Guests will have easy access to Hobart’s famous markets, galleries and cafes, making it an ideal location for both business and leisure travelers.

Paul Hutton, area vice president and head of Australasia, Hilton, said, “We are thrilled to bring the DoubleTree by Hilton experience to Hobart. This hotel is not only a testament to our commitment to expanding our footprint in Australasia, but also our dedication to providing exceptional hospitality in prime locations. With the property situated closely to the CBD and the waterfront, our guests will have the best of Hobart right at their doorstep.”

The signing of DoubleTree by Hilton Hobart comes as the award-winning brand surpasses 100 properties in Asia Pacific. With nearly 80 additional properties in the Asia Pacific pipeline, DoubleTree by Hilton will contribute to Hilton’s target to surpass 1,000 trading hotels in this region by 2025.

ABU DHABI SET TO BECOME WORLD’S FIRST DOCUMENT FREE AIRPORT

By 2025, Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport may allow travellers to pass through entirely document-free.

Known for its advanced technology, Zayed Airport has now launched the Smart Travel Project, which plans to install biometric sensors at every identification point in the airport—from check-in counters and immigration booths to duty-free tills, lounges, and boarding gates. Using facial and iris recognition, these sensors will verify travellers’ identities, making traditional ID, passport, and ticket checks unnecessary.

Biometrics, or biological measurements unique to each individual, provide a seamless way to confirm travel status. Currently, this technology is available on some Etihad flights, but Zayed Airport aims to implement it across nine touchpoints—a global first, according to Andrew Murphy, Abu Dhabi Airport’s Chief Information Officer.

Unlike systems that require pre-enrolment, Abu Dhabi’s biometrics will operate automatically. Passengers visiting the UAE, whether residents or tourists, will have their biometrics recorded on arrival by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP). The airport’s technology then integrates this data to verify passengers at each checkpoint without additional steps.

Murphy emphasises the convenience and speed this offers, with initial tests indicating transit times of under 15 minutes from the curb to boarding or retail areas. This efficiency is remarkable given the airport’s capacity to process 45 million passengers annually.

For those preferring a more traditional process, such as infrequent travellers or those with young children, a standard document verification option will remain available. The choice aligns with international standards, acknowledging that some passengers may find facial recognition unfamiliar or prefer a human interaction. Children under 12, whose facial features change rapidly, will still require manual verification.

The drive for biometric integration is not unique to Abu Dhabi. Many global airports are increasingly adopting biometric technology, but no airport has fully implemented a passport-free process. Singapore’s Changi Airport, for instance, is introducing similar measures this year. Other hubs, including Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Delhi, have also installed biometric systems for streamlined travel.

European airports are also progressing; a trial by British Airways last year enabled a fully digital international flight from Heathrow to Rome. In the US, Customs and Border Protection has implemented biometrics across all international arrivals, with select airports using it for departures as well.

Despite the international interest in biometric travel, widespread adoption hinges on standardisation. IATA’s head of customer experience, Louise Cole, explains that passengers will benefit most if biometric processes are consistent across airports. Streamlining biometric technology worldwide would enhance the travel experience, ensuring privacy and data protection.

Abu Dhabi’s document-free system could set the standard, showing the potential for a seamless, paperless airport journey across the globe.

Events Team, MGallery

OUR EXPERIENCE AT MGALLERY MANLY PACIFIC

Our Events Team visited the beautiful refurbished M Gallery in Manly (think: Miami South Beach vibes).

The beachside location and accommodation were fantastic, so were the sweeping views of Manly Beach. Overall, it’s a terrific spot for business meetings, events and gatherings.

Accor has shared a limited offer with us to pass on!

  • Group accommodation rates start from $270 a night, or book day delegate packages from $100
  • Book an event worth $30,000 and receive $600 towards a tailored team building session
  • Book an event worth $50,000 and receive $1,000 towards a tailored team building session
  • Book by 29 Nov 2024 to stay 1 January 2025 to 31 March 2025

Book your next Event with one of our event specialists at au.corporateevents@atpi.com

ATPI WINS MOST OUTSTANDING GLOBAL TRAVEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY

We’re delighted and honoured to have secured ‘Most Outstanding Global Travel Management Company’ at the prestigious National Travel Industry Awards (NTIA) 2024.

On winning the award, our Regional Managing Director Pacific & Africa Peter Muller says, “This award reflects the dedication and commitment of our team, who work hard every day to provide exceptional service and innovative solutions for our clients.
A big thank you to our staff for their continued commitment—it’s their effort and professionalism that make this recognition possible. Here’s to continuing our journey together and reaching new milestones.”

We’re proud that this award reflects our values and mission, and we’re determined to keep providing an outstanding service level to all ATPI clients for their corporate and leisure travel needs. Congratulations to our entire team who work tirelessly to create seamless, luxurious and value-packed travel experience for our customers.

Turkish Airlines, the airline that flies to more countries than any other, adds Sydney to its robust flight network.

TURKISH AIRLINES LAUNCHING FLIGHTS FROM SYDNEY AIRPORT

Turkish Airlines, the airline that flies to more countries than any other, adds Sydney to its robust flight network. With its second foray into the continent, flag carrier airline also marks the city as its first destination in Australia to have non-stop flights in the future.

Set to start on December 4, 2024, İstanbul – Sydney flights will be operated four times a week via Kuala Lumpur with Airbus A350-900 aircraft.

This new route not only strengthens Turkish Airlines presence in the newest continent in its flight network but also continues to bolster ties between Türkiye and Australia, driving growth in tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

About the new addition to global airline’s flight network, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Prof. Ahmet Bolat stated: “We are happy to announce the launch of our Sydney route, which opens another chapter for us in the continent. This new route not only enhances our flight network but also reaffirms our commitment to our presence in Australia as we connect our guests to new opportunities and experiences with the comfort and hospitality of Turkish Airlines. Sydney will also be our first destination in Australia to have non-stop flights when we receive the aircraft capable of making the journey in a single leg.”

On the new development, Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said: “I am thrilled that Turkish Airlines is touching down in Sydney for the first time, providing European travellers with direct access to our state’s world-class visitor experiences. The NSW Government has worked closely with Sydney Airport and Turkish Airlines to secure this new service. Sydney is the gateway to Australia and supporting this new route holds enormous potential for the growth of the state’s visitor economy.”

Sydney Airport CEO, Scott Charlton said: “This announcement of direct flights marks a significant milestone for travel to Europe, offering passengers seamless access to hundreds of destinations from Turkish Airlines’ Istanbul hub. We are proud that Turkish Airlines Sydney and NSW for their first non-stop service which is a strong endorsement of everything our city and state has to offer. In the meantime, passengers will get to experience Turkish Airlines’ award-winning service from Sydney to Istanbul via Kuala Lumpur in December 2024.

With more than 15,000 Turkish-born Australians in New South Wales and Türkiye consistently rated as one of the top destinations for Australian travellers, we’re confident this service will be strongly supported. Today’s announcement is also incredibly important for the Sydney and NSW economies and speaks to the impact of international aviation in supporting our visitor economy.

The special launch prices for Turkish Airlines’ Sydney to Istanbul flights are $1,489 AUD in Economy Class. 

The launch prices are valid for:

Ticketing Date: 12 September – 31 December 2024

Travel Date: 04 December 2024 – 31 May 2025.

JETSTAR TO LAUNCH TWO NEW TRANS-TASMAN ROUTES

Jetstar will significantly expand its Gold Coast network, offering new direct flights to Hamilton and Dunedin in New Zealand from June 2025. 

Both new services will take off three times a week, creating more than 115,000 new low fares seats every year across the Tasman, providing a multi-million-dollar boost to the Gold Coast’s tourism industry. 

It will be the first time Jetstar has flown to the city of Hamilton, giving Queenslanders a second gateway to the North Island and convenient access to holiday hot spots like Rotorua, the Bay of Plenty and Hobbiton. 

The new service between the Gold Coast and Dunedin will boost access to the South Island’s second-largest city and provide more options for people to road trip across New Zealand by flying into one part of the country and out of another on Jetstar’s network. 

Today’s announcement follows the signing of a seven-year agreement between the Qantas Group and Queensland Airports, which will support future growth for both Jetstar and Qantas and lead to more flights and low fares for Queenslanders. 

Jetstar Group CEO, Stephanie Tully, said today’s announcement is great news for the Gold Coast region. 

“It’s great news for customers, with the new routes unlocking more than 115,000 new low fares seats a year between the Gold Coast and Hamilton and Dunedin, while helping to connect the city’s large population of Kiwi ex-pats to their home country.”
“We thank the Queensland Government and Queensland Airports for their ongoing support of low fares travel across the Sunshine State.” 

Queensland Airports Limited CEO, Amelia Evans, said “New Zealand is Australia’s largest international visitor market, so it makes sense for us to increase our Trans-Tasman connectivity. We’re proud that we’ll be Australia’s most connected airport to New Zealand,” she said. 

Queensland Tourism Minister Michael Healy encouraged New Zealanders to snap up the deals while they can. 

“The new services will make Gold Coast Airport Australia’s most connected to New Zealand, with more routes for visitors and students to arrive, with air freight heading back across the Tasman.
“Almost half a million kiwis crossed the ditch to visit Queensland in the year ending March 2024, setting a second consecutive visitor spending record with $821 million in overnight visitor expenditure.” 

Hotel Alba, a stylish urban retreat in Adelaide’s CBD

HOTEL ALBA, A STYLISH URBAN RETREAT IN ADELAIDE’S CBD

Hotel Alba enjoys prime location in Adelaide’s South Terrace precinct. Whether exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, indulging in retail therapy, or attending business meetings, Hotel Alba serves as the perfect starting point for any Adelaide experience.

The newly revitalised hotel is a haven for both leisure and business travellers seeking a comfortable escape, featuring:

  • 99 sleek and cosy guest rooms, with the choice of standard, studio or a one-bedroom apartment
  • All rooms feature a private balcony, with views of either the park, city or pool
  • A relaxing pool, where guests can unwind and soak up the South Australian sun
  • Newly launched restaurant, ela, a Mediterranean-inspired dining experience for both hotel guests and locals with a focus on local, South Australian produce, led by Executive Chef Nigel Rich and Head Chef Ashleigh Lindner

Hotel Alba’s transformation is now complete and it is currently welcoming guests at a very special rate of $189 AUD (room only). Hotel Alba is situated at 226 South Terrace, Adelaide and is part of the South Terrace Precinct that also includes The Terrace Hotel and HotelMOTEL, all part of EVT Hotels & Resorts under the Independent Collection.

Lanson Place Parliament Gardens opens - The ultimate Melbourne retreat

LANSON PLACE PARLIAMENT GARDENS OPENS – THE ULTIMATE MELBOURNE RETREAT

Ideally located on the edge of the CBD and surrounded by tranquil green spaces, Lanson Place Parliament Gardens offers the ultimate Melbourne retreat for your next leisure or business stay. 

Lanson Place Parliament Gardens features a sophisticated range of contemporary hotel rooms and apartments situated at 502 Albert Street, East Melbourne there’s nowhere better to experience the city’s top restaurants, theatres, sporting events and commercial centre.

Highlights include:

  • New 5 star boutique hotel located on edge of Melbourne’s CBD
  • 137 sophisticated hotel rooms, apartments and penthouses
  • Modern Australian cuisine served in Chronicle 502 Bar & Dining
  • 24 hour access to our fitness centre
  • 20m indoor heated swimming pool and spa

Opening specials:
From $280 per night with complimentary welcome drink and buffet breakfast for one, valid until 12 Jan 2025.

Our Corporate Events Specialist, Kathy, goes to Hong Kong

OUR CORPORATE EVENTS SPECIALIST, KATHY, GOES TO HONG KONG

Introducing our very own Kathy Knipp, Corporate Events Specialist at ATPI Events. 

Recently, our adventure began with a 7:35am departure from Sydney and to our delight the group received an upgrade to Cathay Pacific Business Class, allowing us to savour a delightful breakfast and lunch as we soared toward our destination. Settling into my seat on the new A350 900 with a 1-2-1 configuration I felt like I was in my own world with a view plus direct aisle access. My 18.5 inch screen provided plenty of first class entertainment from the latest releases to box sets and games. The crew were fantastic and very attentive. After tucking into breakfast, I felt like a little nap and my flight attendant helped arrange the padded seat mattress, pillow and duvet.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by Darren, who guided us through the airport and introduced us to our local guide, Wing. While Darren offered the choice of walking or taking the train to immigration, we opted for the walk, unaware it would take approximately 20 minutes. A tip for future travellers: the train runs every two minutes and is a much quicker option!

After a swift 27 minutes in the immigration line, our bags were waiting for us, and we boarded a bus for a scenic 40-minute transfer to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Central Hong Kong. We were immediately whisked away for high tea in the Club Lounge, a fitting welcome. Our harbour-view room came with Club Lounge access, offering complimentary afternoon tea—a perfect way to unwind after a long journey. That evening, we enjoyed a fusion dinner at Ho Lan Jeng, a trendy spot just a short walk from the lively Lan Kwai Fong district.

Day two kicked off with a ride on the Peak Tram, offering stunning views. We explored the PMQ (Police Married Quarters) and participated in a ceramics painting team-building exercise. Later, we enjoyed cocktails at The Aubrey, one of Asia’s top bars, followed by a traditional Cantonese dinner at Man Wah.

That evening, we enjoyed a cocktail session at The Aubrey, ranked among Asia’s 50 Best Bars, which was followed by an exquisite traditional Cantonese dinner at, Man Wah, showcasing the Mandarin Oriental Hotel’s blend of history and luxury.

On Sunday, we inspected the recently renovated Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hotel, boasting seven Michelin-starred restaurants and an impressive room they dub the Entertainment Suite. Interestingly, Landmark Mandarin Oriental had a completely different atmosphere to that of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Central Hong Kong. A dim sum lunch aboard the Aqua Luna junk boat followed and we enjoyed a scenic 1.5-hour cruise on Victoria Harbour. 

This adventure was followed by visits to Tai Kwun Historic Site and Auberge Discovery Bay Hotel, known for its picturesque function spaces and chapel. We capped off the day with a transfer to the Kerry Hotel in Kowloon.

Our final day included a cooking class in Causeway Bay, where we mastered Sweet and Sour Pork. Our inspections of the Island Shangri-La and Kerry Hotel showcased their impressive facilities, with the Kerry Hotel boasting the largest Grand Ballroom in Hong Kong.

As our journey concluded on Tuesday, we enjoyed a visit to the Cathay Pacific Business Class Lounge at the airport, a serene spot to relax before our flight home. Hong Kong’s efficient transport options made navigating the city a breeze, with English widely spoken.

Hong Kong is not just a vibrant city but an excellent choice for conferences or group events. With a diverse array of facilities, cultural experiences, and the promise of memorable day-to-day activities, this city should be on every traveler’s radar and is an ideal destination for business traveller’s seeking both productivity and adventure.

Let us elevate your next group booking to Hong Kong and beyond, talk to one of our Event Specialists today.