Thomas Cook & Air NZ - Google Cardboard

Thomas Cook & Air NZ - Google Cardboard

As developments in virtual reality (VR) technology come hard and fast, experiential industries like travel and tourism are finding fun and effective ways to use it for marketing.

Google Cardboard is just such a development: an inexpensive virtual viewer that lets people get a VR experience by simply downloading an app and folding some cardboard around their smartphone. This technology presents a great opportunity for airlines show off attractive features and services or promote destinations in a controlled and branded environment.

In a campaign targeting travel agencies in the UK, Air New Zealand has created the Air NZ Cabin Viewer app and is giving away 1000 build-it-yourself Google Cardboard units to travel resellers who apply online.

With Google Cardboard, the agencies can invite potential passengers to experience Air New Zealand cabin interiors on its 777-300ER aircraft flying between London, Los Angeles and Auckland.

Similarly, five Thomas Cook Retail shops across the UK are using Google Cardboard to give holiday makers a “try before you buy” experience. Travel brochures available at the stores promote the Thomas Cook Holiday 360 app , which lets customers view exciting content about six Thomas Cook hotels and resorts, all in 360 degree high resolution. People who pick up a brochure for Egypt’s Red Sea will also get a free Google Cardboard viewer for the full VR experience.