Disruptions for Kiwis flying to Philippines during Apec

Manila will host the Apec Summit this week. Photo / iStock

Kiwis travelling to the Philippines may face disruptions this week as security measures tighten for world leaders heading to Manila for the Apec Summit.

Security has been ramped up in Manila following the terrorist attacks in Paris at the weekend, which left at least 129 people dead and more than 350 wounded.

Hundreds of flights have been cancelled or rescheduled to ensure the smooth arrival and departure of world leaders - including Prime Minister John Key and US President Barack Obama - at the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation Summit.

The developing Southeast Asian nation has reportedly assembled more than 30,000 military and security personnel for the event, in its largest security operation in years.

More than 1700 domestic and international flights had been cancelled in total, AP reported.

Malaysia Airlines and Philippine Airlines cancelled and rescheduled hundreds of flights between Monday and Friday due to the temporary closure.

It is not known exactly how many Kiwi holidaymakers are affected by the cancellations because there are no direct flights between New Zealand and Manila.

But travel agents say it is important for New Zealand travellers to be flexible and stay in contact with affected airlines.

House of Travel commercial director Brent Thomas said security measures were being increased after the Paris attacks.

"We understand security in Manila has intensified following the tragic attacks on Paris.

"If you are intending to travel to Manila this week, we advise getting in touch with your travel agent and the airline you are flying with to confirm any changes to your travel plans," he said.

Malaysian Airlines will allow ticket changes for pre-booked tickets but House of Travel was waiting to hear about how other airlines would respond, Mr Thomas said.

Travel Agents' Association of New Zealand chief executive Andrew Olsen said it was an understandable move.

"It's a completely understandable reaction because it's a group of world leaders ... but I think again, it's common sense. Manila is not closing its airport or services on the basis of a declared threat but it is taking a safety-first position," he said.

It was important travellers were as flexible and understanding as possible in the aftermath of the attacks, he said.

"As countries respond to this, whether the threats are real or advice is saying it's something they need to be concerned about ... the message would be try and understand these are different times where things will happen and countries are taking the best position they can for the safety of everyone concerned, including tourists."

Fight Centre NZ general manager retail Sean Berenson said Manila Airport would have fewer flights this week during the summit.

Any travellers due to fly to Manila in the next few days should talk to their travel expert as soon as possible to discuss plans and options, he said.

Last year about 13,000 Filipinos visited New Zealand and 20,000 New Zealanders travelled to the Philippines.

There are no direct flights between New Zealand and Manila, but Air New Zealand has signalled interest in the route this week.