Tahiti Tourisme Signed Deal for Luxury Travel
The two-year partnership aims to expand tourism access as a new direct flight service launches from Sydney to Papeete.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Australia and New Zealand
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Tahiti Tourisme has signed a two-year memorandum of understanding with The Luxury Travel Collection to strengthen tourism ties in Australia and New Zealand. The agreement coincides with the upcoming launch of a direct air link between Sydney and Papeete.
Why it matters
The partnership is designed to prepare travel agencies for increased demand ahead of new direct flight capacity. Australia currently represents the fastest-growing source market for tourism to The Islands of Tahiti.
The Islands of Tahiti welcomed 281,000 tourists in 2025, with Australia emerging as the fastest-growing source market. Air Tahiti Nui will add over 60,000 seats annually via a new twice-weekly 294-seat Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner service.
The players
Bud Gilroy
He serves as the board chairman for Tahiti Tourisme.
Nikki Glading
She is the general manager of The Luxury Travel Collection.
Air Tahiti Nui
This is the primary airline carrier for the territory of French Polynesia.
Tahiti Tourisme
This is the official destination marketing organization for French Polynesia.
The details
LTC luxury advisors will gain access to specialized training and luxury product information through the Tahiti Specialist Programme. This credential system is a core component of the agreement to ensure travel professionals are equipped to promote the destination.
Timeline
In 2025, The Islands of Tahiti hosted 281,000 visitors.
Air Tahiti Nui begins its direct Sydney-Papeete route on 15 December 2026.
Registration for the Tahiti Specialist Programme opens next month.
Travel Outlook
This agreement follows the post-pandemic surge in Pacific luxury tourism demand as agencies pivot to capture increased interest from the Australian market. By synchronizing advisor training with new flight availability, the firms aim to stabilize bookings throughout the year.
Travelers looking to book luxury trips to Tahiti can expect more direct options starting late 2026 as flight capacity increases by 60,000 seats annually. Prospective visitors should consult with advisors registered in the Tahiti Specialist Programme for the latest destination products.
The takeaway
This partnership highlights the critical role of specialized advisor training in managing shifts in luxury travel demand. Travelers benefit from increased connectivity and better-prepared agency support for their upcoming Pacific vacations.
What happens next
Air Tahiti Nui is scheduled to commence its new twice-weekly Sydney-Papeete flight service on 15 December 2026.
Further reading
For additional context on regional industry shifts, visit the Australia and New Zealand section.
More information
To register for training or view the latest resources, visit the Tahiti Specialist Programme registration.
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