The tourism industry in New Zealand is witnessing a true technological revolution. One of the most striking examples comes from a hotel that implemented the use of robots, saving tens of thousands of euros in salaries. The event is not an isolated case but part of a broader trend, which sees companies such as SkyMotion e Air New Zealand invest in cutting-edge technologies such as virtual reality, drones and small electric planes.
These innovations promise to radically transform the way we travel, and also how we experience the world around us.
The role of robots in the hotel industry
A Sudima hotel in New Zealand has revealed it is saving around $90.000 a year in wages by introducing two service robots. Alone, the two devices serve over 90% of orders.
The New Zealand hotel has adopted a pioneering strategy, employing robots to carry out tasks that traditionally require human presence. This move has led to significant savings in personnel costs, but has also opened a debate on the impact of automation on the work sector. Robots, with their efficiency and precision capabilities, offer an attractive model for the hotel industry, which could see a substantial transformation in the coming years.
Virtual reality and drones: exploration and entertainment
Virtual reality (VR) and drones are becoming increasingly popular in various industries, including tourism and travel. Sky Motion, for example, is using VR to let customers explore places they've never visited before. This tool not only enriches the customer experience but also opens new frontiers for marketing and advertising in the tourism sector. At the same time, the use of drones offers unprecedented possibilities, from delivering goods to offering unique aerial tours, helping to create increasingly personalized and engaging customer experiences.
Electric planes: the future of short-haul tourism
The introduction of single-seat electric aircraft that do not require a traditional flight license represents another significant innovation. These planes, as highlighted by Greg Foran of Air New Zealand, could revolutionize short-haul transport, offering an environmentally friendly and efficient alternative to car travel. This technology not only has the potential to reduce the environmental impact of tourism, but could also open up new routes and destinations, making travel more accessible and versatile.
Artificial intelligence and the future of tourism
Rebecca Ingram, CEO of event organizer Tourism Industry Association, highlighted how technology and artificial intelligence (AI) have become crucial components of the tourism industry. AI, in particular, has the potential to personalize travel experiences. More: it can optimize operations and improve customer services. The integration of AI into tourism is no longer a future hypothesis, but a current reality that is shaping travel experiences in previously unthinkable ways.
Conclusion: An Expanding Technological Horizon
New Zealand is therefore proving to be at the forefront of adopting innovative technologies in the tourism sector. From the use of robots in hotel operations, to exploring new frontiers with virtual reality and drones, to the exciting development of electric aircraft, these innovations are shaping a future where travel will be an increasingly technology-integrated experience . As these trends continue to evolve, we expect to see even more significant changes in how we explore and experience the world.
