Last week, my wife Hong and I were honored to attend an unforgettable evening hosted by Hawaiian Airlines, Hawaiʻi Tourism Oceania, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, and Outrigger Hotels & Resorts. Held at Sydney’s George Street Event Cinemas, the event was more than a private screening of Moana 2—it was a heartfelt mahalo to the travel industry, recognising the vital role we play in bringing the beauty and culture of Hawaiʻi to life for travelers around the world.
A Warm Welcome with Hawaiian Spirit
The evening began with refreshments and a chance to mingle, creating an atmosphere brimming with camaraderie and excitement. It was wonderful to connect with so many passionate travel professionals and their families, all united by a shared love for Hawaiʻi and the magic it holds.
Inspiring Presentations
Before the screening, key partners shared inspiring presentations about their offerings and the values that drive their work.
Andrea Robinson from Walt Disney Parks & Resorts kicked things off with an overview of the enchanting experiences at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa. From luaus to character breakfasts, Aulani offers a perfect fusion of luxury and authentic Hawaiian culture, making it a dream destination for families.
Anna Riedel of Hawaiʻi Tourism Oceania spoke passionately about Hawaiʻi’s commitment to sustainability and cultural preservation, encouraging us to inspire travelers to connect deeply with the islands’ heritage and natural beauty.
Maria Alaveras, Director of Sales Oceania for Outrigger Hotels & Resorts, took the stage to highlight Outrigger’s stunning properties in the region, showcasing how these resorts offer unparalleled hospitality infused with the spirit of aloha.
Finally, Andrew Stanbury, Managing Director of International and North America Sales for Hawaiian Airlines, wrapped up the presentations. With a humorous nod to the eager children in the audience, he promised to keep his remarks brief as he introduced the airline’s Moana 2-themed aircraft. The stunning Airbus A330 livery features beloved characters like Moana and Maui and will bring the magic of Polynesia to international destinations, including Sydney and Auckland.
The Ultimate Prize
The night held an extra touch of excitement as a lucky travel adviser from MTA Travel won an extraordinary prize package that included:
- 200,000 Hawaiian Airlines miles
- Four nights at Outrigger Waikiki Paradise Hotel
- Three nights at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, complete with a character breakfast and lūʻau
- A VIP package for two at Wai Kai, West Oahu’s premier water sports destination
Seeing thier joy as they received her prize was a highlight of the evening, and I’m sure this once-in-a-lifetime experience will create incredible memories for her and her lucky travel companions.
A Cinematic Celebration of Polynesia
Then came the moment everyone was waiting for—Moana 2. The long-awaited sequel beautifully captured the values of Polynesian culture, including community, connection to nature, and a deep respect for heritage. It was a visual and emotional feast that reminded us of the transformative power of storytelling.
Reflection on the Night
As we left the theater, I couldn’t help but reflect on how moments like this highlight the true purpose of travel. It’s not just about visiting destinations; it’s about immersing ourselves in their stories, their traditions, and their values. This event was a powerful reminder of the role we play in shaping how people experience and respect the world.
A heartfelt mahalo to Hawaiʻi Tourism Oceania, Disney Destinations, and Hawaiian Airlines for curating such a meaningful and memorable evening. It was a celebration of community, culture, and the unifying power of storytelling—something that will stay with me long after the credits rolled.
Event coverage:
- Riding the wave: Hawai’i says Mahalo at a special Moana 2 screening event for trade partners
- Travel Weekly
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