Recession brings hopes for travel bargains

Overseas Bay travellers appear to be holding off on making plans over the Christmas period as the recession affects people's ability to spend.
Travel agents told the Bay of Plenty Times business was not down a lot but many travellers were holding off committing to travel until the New Year.
Travelcom Mount Maunganui manager Katrina Stewart said the destinations remained much the same but people were waiting in the hope of getting better deals.
"People are still interested in travelling ... as far as we're concerned, they're just delaying a decision," she said.
Ms Stewart said a lot of people were awaiting good New Year specials - specials which might not happen.
"A lot of people are thinking the airlines will slash their prices to fill their seats," she said.
But it was more likely airlines would cut the number of flights to counteract the recession.
Ms Stewart said Travelcom were actively seeking good deals to promote to customers to make cheaper options available.
David Cull, manager at Harvey World Travel Tauranga, said although business was steady he too had noticed people were waiting.
"We haven't seen a downturn at this stage, I think people are holding off to the New Year though for UK/Europe to a large degree," he said.
But Shane Kennedy, owner of House of Travel Tauranga, said there had not been a downturn for his business, but rather an 8 per cent increase on advanced bookings for 2009.
Mr Kennedy attributed it to their method of advertising and strong brand.
"It could be that our brand is doing okay and we're protecting our position and gaining market share," he said.
"You have to be more active, there's no doubt about it, and you've got to be more creative.
"As a retailer now, if you sat back and waited for people to come into your business it ain't going to happen, you are going to suffer."
Mr Kennedy said House of Travel Tauranga secured customs rights to the Port of Tauranga and were facilitating a cruise in February which started in Tauranga.
"That's completely new business. The major attraction was they could start here," he said.