In this TRENZ Unpacked episode, Michelle chats with Ajay Vagha from APT Travel Group - a long-time group touring specialist with deep roots in New Zealand (APT’s first international destination). Ajay shares why scheduled group touring is enjoying a real resurgence, with travellers valuing the comfort, security and simplicity of having everything taken care of - from airport transfers to luggage handling, priority access, and expert tour commentary.

From an operator perspective, Ajay explains why group travel can be a smart “baseline” revenue stream: it’s typically booked well in advance, helps with budgeting, staffing and forecasting, and can support shoulder-season cashflow. He also unpacks what APT looks for when selecting experiences: products that are premium and authentic, not “cookie cutter,” plus operators who understand tight touring timelines, can offer flexible timing, and occasionally add something small-but-bespoke to help guests feel special.

Ajay busts a big myth: group business isn’t immediate. Their planning cycles run long - often 24+ months - with discussions already reaching into 2027–29. He shares what makes a great TRENZ appointment (spoiler: preparation wins), what buyers need operators to have ready (rates timelines, cancellation policies, group terms, imagery - delivered digitally), and why building relationships matters even if you’re not the right fit yet. Finally, he flags emerging trends: growth in small group touring, slower-paced travel, longer itineraries, and rising interest in places like Napier, Blenheim and Kaikōura alongside the classic icons.

______________________________________________

Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com

If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

Today's Guest

Ajay Vagha - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajay-vagha-ba126b8/

For more info on TRENZ: https://www.trenz.co.nz/

TRENZ Appointments close 31 March 2026.

Resources and Links to connect with us:

Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

Website: www.destinatenz.com

If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

In this TRENZ Unpacked episode, Michelle is joined by Geraldine “G” McMillan, Western Markets Sales Manager at RealNZ, to unpack what really drives results at TRENZ.

Responsible for revenue across the UK, Europe, USA, Canada and Mexico, G shares an inside look at how one of New Zealand’s largest tourism operators approaches the biggest onshore trade show of the year — and why the real value of TRENZ extends far beyond the 15-minute appointments.

From pre-show preparation and strategic appointment planning to follow-up discipline and measuring ROI through CRM systems like HubSpot, this episode is packed with practical advice for both first-time exhibitors and seasoned operators.

They discuss:

• Whether deals are actually “done” at TRENZ

• Why follow-up is where the real money is made

• How to maximise ROI (even as a smaller operator)

• The risk of not showing up

• Western market trends, including changing lead times and strong US performance

• The power of inbound partnerships and trade relationships

If you’re wondering whether TRENZ is worth the investment — or how to get more traction from it — this episode is essential listening.

___________________________________________________________

Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com

If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

Today's Guest

Geraldine McMillan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/geraldine-mcmillan-a4a2a8b0/

For more info on TRENZ: https://www.trenz.co.nz/

Resources and Links to connect with us:

Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

Website: www.destinatenz.com

If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

In this episode, Michelle sits down with Paul Button, General Manager of Rotorua Canopy Tours, to unpack one of New Zealand’s most remarkable tourism success stories.

From his early days as a whitewater raft guide chasing winters and summers around the globe, to leading one of New Zealand’s most awarded visitor experiences, Paul shares his journey into tourism leadership and the culture that drives Rotorua Canopy Tours.

This conversation goes far beyond ziplining.

Paul reveals:

• How founder James Fitzgerald set out to create “the most engaging zipline experience in the world” - and why the zipline itself only makes up three minutes of the tour.

• How conservation became central to the business, removing 800 pests in the first week and sparking a long-term biodiversity commitment.

• Why visitor experience excellence is simple - but incredibly hard to deliver consistently.

• The power of emotional “spikes” in creating unforgettable family moments.

• How a tourism business is now contributing to cutting-edge carbon sequestration research, potentially reshaping how New Zealand values native forest restoration.

With over 9,000 TripAdvisor reviews and global accolades under their belt, Rotorua Canopy Tours proves that tourism can do more than entertain - it can restore ecosystems, build legacy, and create meaningful human connection.

This is a powerful conversation about leadership, culture, conservation, and the role tourism can play in shaping a better future.

___________________________________________________________

Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com

If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

Today's Guest

Paul Button - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-button-93241b187/

More about Rotorua Canopy Tours - https://www.canopytours.co.nz/

Resources and Links to connect with us:

Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

Website: www.destinatenz.com

If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

In the first TRENZ Unpacked episode for 2026, Michelle Caldwell is joined by industry stalwart Michel Adolphe, Chief Commercial Officer at Hind Management (home of the Sudima Hotel Group).

With more than two decades of TRENZ under his belt, Michel shares a refreshingly honest look at how the event has evolved - and why its core purpose hasn’t changed. From handwritten appointment requests and queueing at buyer booths, to today’s slick digital scheduling, Michel reflects on what’s different, what still matters, and why TRENZ remains a long-term game.

This episode goes beyond nostalgia. Michel offers practical, grounded advice for accommodation providers and operators at every stage - from first-time exhibitors to seasoned sellers - covering ROI expectations, trade-readiness, presentation tips, and the importance of doing your homework before you walk into a 15-minute appointment.

It’s also a timely snapshot of what’s happening in international markets right now, how distribution has shifted with the rise of OTAs, and why relationships with inbound operators and agents remain critical.

If you’re heading to TRENZ, thinking about it for the future, or just want a reality-check from someone who’s truly seen it all - this is a must-listen.

__________________________________________________________________

Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com

If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

Today's Guest

Michel Adolphe - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michel-adolphe-70967225/

More about TRENZ - www.trenz.co.nz

Resources and Links to connect with us:

Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

Website: www.destinatenz.com

If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

Welcome Back!

In this episode, Michelle catches up with Tony Laskey, Executive Director of ServiceIQ, to talk about the state of the tourism and hospitality workforce and why investing in people has never been more important.

Tony breaks down what ServiceIQ actually does in plain English, how on-the-job training works, and why it’s designed to fit real workplaces without pulling staff off the floor. They explore practical training pathways, leadership development, and how structured learning can improve staff confidence, retention, and customer experience.

The conversation also touches on post-COVID workforce changes, new government direction, and how businesses of all sizes can access affordable, NZQA-recognised training with local, hands-on support.

If you’re a tourism or hospitality operator wondering how to build a stronger, more capable team in 2026, this episode is a great place to start.

__________________________________________________________________

Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com

If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

Today's Guest

Tony Laskey - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonylaskey/

Service IQ - https://www.serviceiq.org.nz

Resources and Links to connect with us:

Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

Website: www.destinatenz.com

If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

In the final episode of our TRENZ Unpacked series prior to the big event, Michelle chats with Rebecca Ingram, Chief Executive of Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA), just weeks out from TRENZ 2025.

Together, they dive into:

What’s New at TRENZ 2025 More informal networking time, a refreshed welcome function, a rejigged TRENZ Talks format, and better flow across the full event programme based on industry feedback.

Behind the Scenes of Planning TRENZ From technology and appointment-matching algorithms to catering, media, risk management and ministerial hosting – it’s a team effort at every level, with planning already underway for 2026!

Real ROI for Operators TIA’s impact research shows 74% of sellers expect to generate over $50K in revenue from their TRENZ appointments – and for many, it’s six figures or more. A compelling case for why TRENZ is a no-brainer in your annual sales strategy.

Quality Match Making Over 37,000 meeting requests were made this year, with 99.6% of mutual appointment requests fulfilled thanks to the locally built TRENZ Connect tech platform.

Why Post-Event Feedback Matters TIA actively uses your survey responses to shape future events and improve the experience year-on-year – including catering upgrades and sustainability practices.

Beyond TRENZ – The Role of TIA Michelle and Bex also chat about the wider mahi of TIA – advocacy, member support, sustainability, and the newly announced TIA-TNZ marketing working group designed to strengthen industry input into TNZ’s campaigns.

Hope for the Future Despite global uncertainty, Rebecca shares her optimism for NZ tourism, powered by values-driven people, manaakitanga, and the deeply personal nature of the experiences we offer.

Final Thought: “Diversity is good” – Rebecca encourages tourism operators to embrace new markets and build resilience by diversifying their trade relationships at TRENZ 2025.

__________________________________________________

Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com

If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

Today's Guest

Rebecca Ingram: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-ingram-8450208/

Resources and Links to connect with us:

Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

Website: www.destinatenz.com

If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

In this episode of The Tourism Chat Show, Michelle sits down with RotoruaNZ’s Lou Baddeley to unpack one of the most underrated – yet crucial – parts of the TRENZ experience: networking.

Whether you're a natural connector or someone who dreads striking up a conversation in a coffee queue, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you build relationships, spark opportunity, and turn casual chats into long-term business.

Key takeaways include:

• Why networking matters: TRENZ is more than just scheduled appointments. It’s about those unstructured moments – in the coffee line, on a famil, or even on the dance floor – that can spark lasting relationships and real business.

• Overcoming the fear: Strategies to help introverts feel more confident, including ‘soft networking’ techniques, using extroverts to help with introductions, and remembering that everyone feels awkward sometimes.

• Networking opportunities at TRENZ 2025: From the ECNI hosted welcome function to the iconic farewell event at Skyline Rotorua – there are plenty of chances to connect outside your appointment schedule.

• Following up effectively: Lou shares her follow-up formula, from personalised emails with meeting photos to quarterly updates and using WhatsApp to stay top of mind.

• Market-specific insights: Learn how networking styles differ across key international markets like India and the US – and how to adapt your approach.

• Leveraging social media: From LinkedIn to Instagram and WhatsApp – Lou talks about how to use these platforms to keep conversations going and showcase your brand.

• Trends for networking in trade: Hybrid events, AI matchmaking, and digital business cards are changing the game – but the fundamentals of relationship building remain the same.

Lou’s top tip? Go in with a plan, but stay flexible. Use your network to get introduced, and don’t underestimate the value of a spontaneous, genuine conversation.

___________________________________________

Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com

If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

Today's Guest

Lou Baddiley - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lou-baddiley-47317932/

Find Lou in Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/louthebeautyfoodie

Resources and Links to connect with us:

Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

Website: www.destinatenz.com

If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

In this special episode of The Tourism Chat Show, Michelle chats with Andrew Wilson, Chief Executive of RotoruaNZ, to unpack everything Rotorua has planned for TRENZ 2025 – and let’s just say, it's shaping up to be something pretty special.

Highlights include:

• Appointment Schedules Now Live: Get across the new Trends Connect features – including a full list of missed appointment requests and mutual time slots to help you fill your calendar efficiently.

• Rotorua’s Strength as Host City: Andrew shares what makes Rotorua the perfect destination to host TRENZ – from its walkability and innovation to its strong operator community and manaakitanga.

• The Big Welcome: Delegates can expect a powerful pōhiri at the Sir Howard Morrison Centre, followed by a separate welcome function on Tuesday night.

• Host City Famil Experiences: Over 20 operators are involved in this year’s host city famil programme, offering immersive, first-hand experiences of Rotorua’s top tourism products.

• Product Updates & Surprises: Expect to see major investments, new experiences (some still under wraps), and upgraded attractions like Wai Ariki Spa and Skyline.

• Sustainability in Action: Rotorua’s operators lead with humility and purpose – backed by over 25 years of the local sustainability charter. From geothermal heating at the venue to supply chain scrutiny, the region walks the talk.

• Final Night Celebration: It’s not officially on the TRENZ programme – but it’s happening. The legendary farewell event is back at Skyline Rotorua, and expectations are high.

Andrew also reflects on the evolving nature of Rotorua’s tourism industry, including a shift toward premium experiences, new hotel developments, and the growing fusion of culture, eco-tourism and adventure.

__________________________________________________

Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com

If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch!

This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰

Today's Guest

Andrew Wilson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-wilson-88187217/

For more info on Rotorua - https://www.rotoruanz.com/

Resources and Links to connect with us:

Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ

Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow

Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/

Website: www.destinatenz.com

If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast