NZ a nation of narks with the humble ‘sickie’

NZ a nation of narks with the humble ‘sickie’

Hotels.com™ survey lifts the lid on Kiwis’ unofficial leave

Auckland– 25 May 2015 – It appears Kiwis are too honest for their own good. So much so that one in three Kiwis admit to dobbing themselves in for one of the nation’s most popular little white lies – pulling a ‘sickie’ – according to new research by Hotels.com.

The Hotels.com survey reveals that not only are we unable to trust ourselves with our sickie secrets, it seems we can’t trust our colleagues, friends or family either. Almost a third (31%) of us have been reported to the boss by our peers through a slip-up in conversation or online post. In fact more than one in ten (13%) of our well-intentioned colleagues admit to accidently spilling the beans.

More concerning is that when it comes to why we’re taking off time ‘illicitly’ from work, it’s actually fear of work itself that’s causing us to call in sick. In fact, more than one third (38%) of Kiwis report that feeling stressed out is why they take sickies.

“Kiwis are generally a hard-working, honest bunch so taking the occasional sickie to recharge batteries is not a terrible thing,” said Katherine Cole, Hotels.com’s Regional Director, Australia, New Zealand & Singapore.

“Take a sickie if you must, but rather than stay at home, take advantage of the thousands of competitive hotel deals on offer and book your escape on our easy-to-use website,” said Ms Cole.

Of those who already throw sickies for a holiday, 67% take a break locally, while 33% flee the scene of the crime and travel regionally or internationally. Auckland was the most popular regional destination (38%), while Wellington and Hamilton took out joint second place (14%). Napier, Hastings, Palmerston North, Nelson, Rotorua and Taupo all tied for third place (4%).

For those not afraid to use their passports, the most popular international destination was Australia (56%), followed by North America (19%) and the UK (13%).

Gen-Yers are the age group most likely to play truant, with 45% of Kiwis aged 25-34 admitting to taking a sickie – compared to only 23% of those 65 years and older.

The nation’s biggest city, Auckland, is also sickies’ central, with 45% of its population admitting to throwing a sickie, compared to only 26% of mainlanders outside of Canterbury.

Nearly one in ten (9%) said they would be tempted to skip work to catch a sporting event or watch a live concert (8%).

Deals in New Zealand’s most popular destinations to take a sickie:

Auckland

Take advantage of your ‘sick’ day and explore Auckland and all its major attractions from the Waldorf Stadium Apartments Hotel. Plan ahead and time your next ‘flu’ with your favourite concert at nearby Vector Arena or take a picnic and spend the day in Victoria Park or Mt Eden Domain, travelling from the inner-Link bus stop on your doorstep. After a busy day relax and enjoy the breathtaking view from your private balcony or put your feet up in your spacious living room. Feel comfortable in your home away from home with a fully equipped kitchen to cook up a banquet for you and your significant other.

Rooms at Waldorf Stadium Apartments Hotel in Auckland start at $177 per room per night (21.05.2015)*. To book a stay at Waldorf Stadium Apartments Hotel in Auckland, visit: http://nz.hotels.com/ho321193/waldorf-stadium-apartments-hotel-auckland-new-zealand/ or call 0800 456 081

Wellington

Take a day off to explore your backyard with a Lord of the Rings tour, embrace the bohemian haven of Cuba Street or get up close and personal to a giraffe at the Wellington Zoo. After a busy day of discovery put your feet up at the renowned James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor. Relieve your aches and pains at Ella Bache day spa or unwind with a visit to the nearby Shandon Golf Club for a complimentary round for two. Treat yourself with one of two world class dining options, with views to match, before retiring to the elegance and comfort of the premier hotel in Wellington.

Rooms at James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor in Wellington start at $147 per room per night (21.05.2015)*. To book a stay at James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor in Wellington, visit: http://nz.hotels.com/ho124318/james-cook-hotel-grand-chancellor-wellington-new-zealand/ or call 0800 456 081.

Sydney, New South Wales

Located on the doorstep of the Darling Harbour precinct, you’ll be minutes away from the Sydney Aquarium, Centrepoint Tower and upcomingVivid festival when you stay at the PARKYROYAL Darling Harbour. Stay in bed all day in fluffy bathrobes and watch in-room movies or simply take in the spectacular views of the city skyline. For health seekers, kick start the day with a buffet breakfast at Barkers Restaurant and mix up the perfect vitamin concoction at the juicing station available. Or for something a little more naughty, catch-up with friends over high tea at the onsite Abode Bistro Bar.

Rooms at PARKROYAL Darling Harbour in Sydney start at $210 per room per night (21.05.2015)*. To book a stay at PARKROYAL Darling Harbour in Sydney, visit http://nz.hotels.com/ho136573/parkroyal-darling-harbour-sydney-australia/ or call 0800 456 081.

Bali, Indonesia

Cash in a couple of sick days and recover from your ‘flu’ in total luxury at H Sovereign Bali. Feel revitalised with a sunrise swim in the rooftop pool followed by a personalised spa treatment at the onsite Avalon Spa. Or take advantage of your downtime with a lazy morning in your luxury king bed, whilst enjoying a complimentary breakfast buffet at your own pace. With over 60% off on bookings before July 14, there is no better time to trade the office for a small slice of Balinese paradise.

Rooms at H Sovereign Bali in Indonesia start at $51 per room per night (21.05.2015)*. To book a stay at H Sovereign Bali in Indonesia, visit:http://nz.hotels.com/ho480730/h-sovereign-bali-tuban-indonesia/ or call 0800 456 081.

Hong Kong

Enjoy an award-winning and contemporary getaway to experience Hong Kong’s art and cultural neighbourhoods. You’ll be feeling as good as new after you are spoilt with a range of free inclusions at Ovolo Southside including free happy hour, Wi-Fi, breakfast, in-room mini-bar and self-laundry. On top of this make the most of Apple TV, designer terraces, relaxing chill out zones and the 24 hour gym. Leave your office stress behind in exchange for the friendly service, funky style and the free added extras of Ovolo Southside.

Rooms at Ovolo Southside in Hong Kong start at $133 per room per night (21.05.2015)*. To book a stay at Ovolo Southside in Hong Kong, visit: http://nz.hotels.com/ho461806/ovolo-southside-hong-kong-hong-kong/ or call 0800 456 081.

*Terms and conditions apply. All prices are correct as of 21 May 2015 but are subject to change. Please see specific details for each hotel listed by clicking on the hotel of your interest, and search with your preferred dates for travel to see the discounted rates for your stay. Prices are per room per night excluding all fees and taxes.

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