New Zealand is one of the few places in the world that makes for a perfect vacation, no matter the season or time of year. There’s something for everyone, regardless of their unique tastes and preferences; from bubbling mud pools to awe-inspiring snowy peaks and picturesque beaches.

Yet, an increasing number of New Zealanders leave the country year after year for their winter holidays.

According to Air New Zealand, the number of Kiwis leaving the country for international destinations during winter holidays has shot up by up to 25% in the last five years. For these travellers, Australia is the most common destination, while others head for the United States and Fiji. Meanwhile, a growing number opt for the likes of Vietnam and Bali.

Data collected over the past forty years reveals that the number of people travelling outside of New Zealand for their vacation has multiplied nearly five times, with numbers spiking to 1.1million in 2016, from 247,000 a year. The increasing interest in Asian countries is especially surprising; statistics compiled by the Herald Data team showed that in 1979, only a little over 10,000 Kiwis visited Asia - this accounted for roughly 4% of all Kiwis who vacationed that year. Now, compare that to the remarkable 187,720 that headed to Asia in 2016 alone, making up almost 17% of vacationers for that whole year.

According to the data Dunedinites and Cantabrians typically head to Brisbane, while West Coasters and Southlanders prefer Rarotonga. Meanwhile, Napier, Palmerston North, and Auckland indigenes head for Fiji more than anywhere else.

The travelling trend seems to indicate that New Zealanders tend to plan ahead for their holidays and know exactly where and how they are going to spend their vacation. Anita Hawthorne, General Manager Air New Zealand, posits that unlike people from other parts of the world, Kiwis plan and book their travel adventures as much as two to three months in advance. Strangely enough, a significant number of these customers book flights on Wednesday nights around 8pm for some reason.

Travel agents are of the opinion that when the weather turns cold, local people become restless, which is when bookings spike. The spike in foreign travel thus far is undeterred by the cost of air fares, which most travellers circumvent by looking out for special offers - especially package deals.

Another interesting aspect of New Zealanders’ thirst for travel is the growing disinterest in Britain, which formerly was the number one travel destination for Kiwis. Astoundingly, the numbers have dropped from 8.3% to 2.5% in recent times.

Australia now stands as the mot popular choice, with interest in this neighbouring country undiminished. For example, 430,000 visited in 2016 alone. However, before you start to think the exodus from New Zealand is a unique phenomenon, the United Nations have released statistics showing that more than 1.2 billion people took overseas trips in 2016, spending over $1.7 trillion whilst abroad. No wonder the global tourism industry seems to have a bigger smile on its face of late.

One reason for the huge disparity between the numbers of New Zealand travellers forty years ago and now can be traced to a marked reduction in the cost of air fares. Presently, they are a fraction of what they were 40 years ago. For instance, an economy-class flight in 1983 to Los Angeles would have cost just over $5000 (after adjustment for inflation). Now, you can take the same trip for $800 or less.

Other popular destinations that more and more Kiwis are heading for to escape the winter and enjoy the sun include:

California

In California, the sun rarely stops shining. Couple that with all the fun destinations including Hollywood, Yosemite National Park and coastal towns like Santa Barabra - and you can start to see why more and more Kiwis are heading here for winte

Travel Tip: If you are planning your next winter holiday, make sure you include travel insurance when booking your flights. Whether you're hopping the ditch to Australia, taking a short trip within New Zealand or venturing further afield, take off on your next Air New Zealand flight knowing you've got cover with travel insurance.

Cairns

For Kiwis heading to Australia for winter, Cairns holds much appeal. The weather remains perfect during periods when other countries are struggling through the cold winter. There are also many fun activities in the region - and that’s without factoring in exploring the Great Barrier Reef or Palm Cove. Furthermore, a wide range of fantastic hotels make Cairns a top choice for couples.

Sunshine Coast

For those who feel Cairns is too crowded, the Sunshine Coast provides a viable alternative. It’s just a short drive from Brisbane and offers many more secluded beaches for people who prefer tranquillity.

Indonesia

It’s not just New Zealanders that head for Bali in winter. In actual fact, this destination is a top choice for many from the UK, US, as well as other parts of the world. Its beaches are especially popular amongst surfers and it’s a fairly busy spot. For those looking to party, Kuta and Seminyak Beach offer everything you’d want, while Lombok Island offers a much more relaxing experience.

Honolulu

Hawaii has a lot to offer, with one of its main attractions being Honolulu. The entire archipelago is perfect for a holiday experience and offers lots of green space and of course, picturesque beaches.

Thailand

Among younger Kiwis, Thailand factors heavily on the ‘bucket list’. This country has something interesting for everyone during winter season; most importantly however, you won’t be faced with any snow or freezing cold weather. There are temples to tour, local nightlife in which to revel, as well as beaches where you can lap up the sun.

Rarotonga

Rarotonga is a common choice among Kiwis - especially for those that may not have the budget for a long distance trip. Rarotonga is like "One Big Resort”, ringed by boutique hotels, resorts, restaurants, gift shops, galleries, coffee spots and convenience stores.