VANCOUVER — American Airlines is making New Zealand more accessible to Canadian travel agents through an exclusive travel fare.

For a limited time IATA or CLIA registered agents are eligible to receive up to a 70% discount on New Zealand airfare and can more easily take a step to become a certified Tourism New Zealand NZ Specialist.

The promotional fare is valid for currently employed travel agents contracted with American Airlines. Sub-agents may also take part in the program as long as employment has been verified by the contracted agency. A valid IATA or CLIA card is required. Tickets must be issued on or before May 31 for travel by May 31. All segments must be confirmed in O and Q class; O discount 70% and Q discount 60%. The deals is valid only on AA operated flights and on AA’s transpacific flights 82/83. AA*/codeshare flights are not permitted.

Up to three family members or one travelling companion may purchase this fare too, however all passengers must travel on the same flights, dates, itinerary as the agent, with no exceptions.

The 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist Programme is designed to help travel agents build knowledge and better sell New Zealand. The free program provides online training modules, webinars, and informative videos about New Zealand’s diverse regions and what they have to offer. A trip to New Zealand is a requirement of the certification.

“We are dedicated to educating more travel agents across the U.S. and Canada about New Zealand as a destination,” says Bjoern Spreitzer, General Manager Americas & Europe for Tourism New Zealand. “This deal is a great opportunity for travel agents to experience the country first-hand and see how New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes, unique Maori culture and award-winning food and wine make it the perfect destination for North American consumers.”

Once in New Zealand agents can receive further discounts on tourism products and activities by signing up to Tourism New Zealand’s Explore New Zealand Programme. The program enables accredited international travel sellers travelling independently to enjoy a range of New Zealand products and experiences.

Discounts are offered for accommodation, attractions, activities, tours and transport. Typical discount offers are 50% off or two-for-one offers for the Explore pass holder and their partner. Offers are available throughout New Zealand, allowing agents to explore off-the-beaten track regions as well as New Zealand’s most popular destinations.

For more information on these special agent discounts, to start the New Zealand Specialist training and to sign up for the Explore program visit traveltrade.newzealand.com.