The Tourism Chat Show

Leadership Lessons in Adventure Tourism - with Anne Newman

In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle welcomes Anne Newman, the General Manager of Christchurch Adventure Park. Anne, recently named the Akiaki Emerging Tourism Leader at the New Zealand Tourism Awards, shares insights into her career, the challenges she's faced, and the strategies she employs to lead effectively in the tourism industry. The conversation covers topics such as crisis management, team motivation, and the future potential of Christchurch Adventure Park. Additionally, listeners are reminded about the closing dates for the TRENZ applications and are encouraged to stay tuned for upcoming episodes featuring interesting topics and guests in the tourism sector.

 

 

00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show

00:29 Introducing Anne Newman

01:08 TRENZ Unpacked Series

02:23 Interview with Anne Newman

04:53 Anne's Career Journey

08:03 Challenges and Crisis Management

13:46 Leadership and Teamwork

21:24 Future of Christchurch Adventure Park

26:14 Emerging Trends in Adventure Tourism

29:14 Advice for Emerging Leaders

33:20 Closing Remarks

 

___________________

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:

Anne Newman - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annenewman1/ 

Christchurch Adventure Park - https://christchurchadventurepark.com/ 

To exhibit at TRENZ - https://www.trenz.co.nz/trenz/sellers 

Resources and Links to connect with us:

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

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 

From Switzerland to Start Ups - with Alex Diethelm

In this episode of The Tourism Chat Show, Michelle welcomes Alex Diethelm from Weekend Getaways and Dogalong. They discuss Alex's journey from Switzerland to New Zealand, her career in tourism, and how COVID-19 spurred her entrepreneurial ventures.

Michelle reflects on insights from the recent Tourism Summit in Auckland, including standout speakers and the Tourism Awards.

Alex shares her experiences in building her businesses, the challenges faced, and the rewarding relationships formed with tourism operators. They also talk about the rise of dog-friendly travel and Alex's public speaking journey.

00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show

01:03 Reflecting on the Tourism Summit

04:18 Introducing Alex Diethelm

04:57 Alex's Journey in Tourism

08:44 Starting Weekend Getaways

10:54 Building Relationships with Tourism Operators

15:52 Managing Two Websites

17:00 The Rise of Dogalong

19:34 The Birth of Dogalong

20:29 Winning the Jury's Heart

21:06 Getting Featured on Seven Sharp

23:18 Facing Public Speaking Fears

27:11 Tips for Calming Nerves

32:46 Future Goals for Dogalong and Weekend Getaways

36:12 Conclusion and Contact Information

 

___________________

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:

Alex Diethelm - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-diethelm/ 

Weekend Getaways - https://weekendgetaways.co.nz/

Dogalong - https://www.instagram.com/dogalongnz/ 

Vin Giang's Stage Academy course - https://www.vinhgiang.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

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 

TRENZ Unpacked - Unlocking Asian Trade Channels with Cecil Potatau

In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle continues the TRENZ Unpacked series, providing valuable tips and industry insights for those attending this important tourism trade event. This episode features Cess from Ngāi Tahu Tourism, an industry expert with 30 years of experience, particularly in the Asian markets.

 

Cess shares his journey, discusses the importance of trade channels, provides tips for new sellers, and offers valuable advice on cultural considerations and commission structures. This session is packed with strategies to build long-term relationships and successfully navigate international trade channels.

 

00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show

02:58 Cess's Journey in the Tourism Industry

05:44 The Importance of Trade Channels in Tourism

08:14 Navigating Trade Channels and Trends

12:45 Cultural Sensitivities in International Markets

16:26 Leveraging Trade Networks for Business Growth

18:55 Common Mistakes and Misconceptions in Trade

22:02 Balancing Trade and Direct Business

23:16 Seasonality and International Markets

25:06 Cultural Sensitivity in Tourism

27:13 The Future of Trade Channels

31:28 Maximizing Trade Channel Potential

33:37 Effective Follow-Up Strategies

37:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

 

This episode is brought to you with the support of Tourism Industry Aotearoa and the TRENZ Events team. 

If you'd like to register to come to TRENZ in 2025, please click here for details https://www.trenz.co.nz/trenz/sellers

_______________

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:

Cecil Potatau - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cecil-potatau-b7075063/

Ngai Tahu Tourism - https://www.ngaitahutourism.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

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 

Life as a Social Media Native - with Natasha Hoffman

In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle Caldwell interviews Natasha Hoffman, the digital marketing advisor for Zealandia in Wellington. Natasha shares her career journey, key social media strategies, and the viral success of Zealandia's creative content. Listeners will gain valuable tips on developing an authentic brand voice, staying on top of social media trends, and balancing organic and paid reach. 

 

00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show

02:07 Upcoming Episode Announcement

03:50 Natasha Hoffman's Career Journey

07:20 Viral Social Media Success

10:16 Social Media Trends and Strategies

12:44 Tools and Tips for Social Media Management

26:14 LinkedIn and Personal Branding

30:47 Aspiring Digital Marketers

31:52 Conclusion and Farewell

 

Today's Guest:

Natasha Hoffman - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hoffmannatasha/

Zealandia - https://www.facebook.com/Zealandia

_______________

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! 🥰

Resources and Links to connect with us:

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

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 

Making the Switch - with Tim Barke

Navigating New Zealand's Tourism: From Dive Masters to Sustainable Practices

 

In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle dives into New Zealand's dynamic tourism industry with special guest Tim Barke. They discuss Tim's fascinating journey from dive master to General Manager of Westervelt NZ, where he shares valuable insights on how tourism can help achieve community goals and the power of storytelling in guest relations. The conversation covers key topics like managing Lake Wanaka's tourism, navigating the challenges of COVID-19, and embedding sustainable practices at Poronui Lodge and Westervelt International. Tim also emphasises the importance of balancing business growth with environmental responsibility, highlighting collaboration with regional councils and land trusts. Wrapping up the episode, they explore Taupo’s unique tourism experiences and the critical role of authentic networking and collaboration in building sustainable, environmentally conscious businesses.

 

00:00 Welcome Back to the Tourism Chat Show

01:14 Introducing Today's Guest: Tim Barke

03:23 Tim Barke's Journey in Tourism

03:53 From Dive Master to General Manager

08:38 Challenges and Opportunities in Tourism

15:11 Sustainability in Tourism

18:38 Sustainability in Tourism: A Business Perspective

19:26 Community Engagement and Positive Impact

20:05 Environmental Projects and Storytelling

22:24 Collaboration with Māori Trusts

23:32 Long-term Vision and Cathedral Thinking

24:52 Post-COVID Tourism Industry Focus

27:12 Quality Over Quantity in Tourism

28:26 Taupo's Unique Tourism Offerings

31:17 Opportunities for Regional Collaboration

33:48 Advice for Future Tourism Strategies

 

Today's Guest:

Tim Barke: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-barke-5a03404/ 

Poronui Lodge: https://www.poronui.com/ 

 

_______________

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! 🥰

Resources and Links to connect with us:

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

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 

TRENZ Unpacked - Heading back to TRENZ 2025 with Thomas Orr

In this episode of The Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle Caldwell introduces the 'TRENZ Unpacked' series, highlighting the significance of the ongoing TRENZ event.

 

Special guest Thomas Orr from Helisika shares his success as a first-time exhibitor this year, focusing on initial expectations, the benefits of shared stands, cost-effectiveness, and the importance of relationship-building. The discussion explores preparation strategies for appointments, personalised pitches, effective networking, and individualized follow-ups.

 

We also discussed product development based on market gaps, leveraging new products for buyer interest, and the long-term benefits of participation in trade shows for boosting local businesses and enhancing New Zealand's global appeal. 

 

00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show

00:12 Introduction to TRENZ Unpacked

00:37 Applications for TRENZ Now Open

06:41 Interview with Thomas Orr

07:21 Thomas' Experience at TRENZ

10:59 Challenges and Adaptations

12:50 Securing Appointments and Building Relationships

13:43 Evaluating the Value of TRENZ

15:51 Immediate Success and Future Growth

17:08 High-End Packages and Client Satisfaction

17:28 First Trade Show Experiences

17:47 Tips for First-Time Attendees

18:57 Tailoring Presentations for Different Clients

20:08 The Importance of Networking

21:42 Effective Follow-Up Strategies

23:57 Developing New Products for Trade Shows

25:45 Looking Forward to TRENZ 2025

27:06 Advice for Prospective Exhibitors

28:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

 

This episode is brought to you with the support of Tourism Industry Aotearoa and the TRENZ Events team. 

If you'd like to register to come to TRENZ in 2025, please click here for details https://www.trenz.co.nz/trenz/sellers

_______________

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:

Thomas Orr - https://www.helisika.co.nz/ 

TRENZ - https://www.trenz.co.nz

TIA - https://www.tia.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

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 

TRENZ Unpacked - The Final Countdown with Rebecca Ingram

This episode marks the final installment of the 'TRENZ Unpacked' series on The Tourism Chat Show, where host Michelle dives deep into the anticipated TRENZ event in Wellington, featuring an exclusive interview with Rebecca Ingram, Chief Executive of Tourism Industry Aotearoa.

 

They discuss the event's focus on maximizing business-to-business (B2B) connections, the sustainable funding crisis facing Regional Tourism Organizations (RTOs), advocacy issues, and practical tips for attendees. The TRENZ event highlights include implementing feedback for enhanced B2B interactions, streamlined processes for a better experience, and measures to showcase Wellington's unique offerings.

 

The discussion also addresses the importance of sustainable tourism funding, engaging with local councils, and the broader vision for New Zealand's tourism industry. Listener engagement is encouraged, with a promise of unique networking opportunities and a vibrant close to the event.

 

00:00 Opening Remarks and Feedback on TRENZ Event

00:50 Welcome to the Final Episode of TRENZ Unpacked

01:25 Industry Challenges and Advocacy Efforts

03:58 Excitement and Preparations for TRENZ in Wellington

06:03 Innovations and Expectations for the Upcoming TRENZ Event

13:46 Sustainable Tourism and Event Design at TRENZ

17:18 Advice for Making the Most Out of TRENZ

22:12 Addressing Sustainable Tourism Funding and Advocacy Projects

29:49 Closing Thoughts and Anticipation for TRENZ

 

This episode is brought to you with the support of Tourism Industry Aotearoa and the TRENZ Events team. 

_______________

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/ 

TRENZ - https://www.trenz.co.nz

TIA - https://www.tia.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

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 

TRENZ Unpacked - North American In-Depth with Hadyn Fitzpatrick

The episode features an interview with Hadyn Fitzpatrick from Tourism New Zealand, who shares insights on tapping into the North American market, the benefits of airline connectivity for New Zealand tourism, and the strategic approach to education and partnership in the industry.

 

Additionally, we discuss marketing New Zealand to North American travellers, overcoming challenges related to seasonality and distance, and leveraging technology and traditional sales channels to maximize tourism opportunities. Key advice for tourism suppliers includes understanding distribution channels, effectively utilising networking opportunities, and preparing a compelling proposition for TRENZ attendees.

 

02:31 Special Guest Hadyn Fitzpatrick: Insights from Tourism New Zealand

03:23 Exploring the U.S. Market: Distribution Systems and Opportunities

04:59 The Role of Air Connectivity in Tourism Growth

07:20 TRENZ 2024: What to Expect and How to Prepare

12:58 Marketing New Zealand to North America: Challenges and Strategies

22:39 Embracing AI in the Travel Industry: Future Trends and Applications

24:49 Maximising Opportunities at TRENZ: Tips for New Zealand Sellers

29:38 Closing Thoughts and Looking Ahead to TRENZ

 

Check out our Instagram for the TNZ North American Distribution slide @thetourismchatshow

_______________

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! 🥰

Resources and Links to connect with us:

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

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 

TRENZ Unpacked - Pack your Bags for Wellington with Jo Heaton

This episode of The Tourism Chat Show hosted by Michelle Caldwell, focuses on the upcoming TRENZ 2024 event being hosted in Wellington for the first time. The episode features an in-depth discussion with Jo Heaton from WellingtonNZ, who provides insights into the event's preparations and the excitement surrounding it. Highlights include the new opportunities presented by Tākina, Wellington's Exhibition and Convention Centre, which is essential for hosting such a significant event.

The discussion covers the comprehensive planning that has gone into making the event a success, from sustainability efforts to ensuring a rich experience for attendees through a variety of famils.

Jo also touches on the unique aspects of Wellington that make it an ideal location for TRENZ, such as its compact nature and the ability to influence government officials due to its status as the capital city. Moreover, the episode teases upcoming features and encourages both buyers and suppliers to engage fully with the Trends event for a comprehensive understanding and experience of Wellington.

 

00:00 Welcome to Wellington: A City of Change

00:36 Introducing the TRENZ Unpacked Episode

01:21 Exploring Wellington: Tips and Activities

03:10 The Excitement of Hosting TRENZ in Wellington

04:30 A Deep Dive into Wellington's Convention Center, Tākina

10:47 What to Expect at TRENZ in Wellington

16:27 Sustainability and Community Engagement at TRENZ

19:00 Looking Forward: The Impact of Hosting TRENZ

24:55 Final Preparations and Tips for Attendees

27:13 Closing Thoughts and Acknowledgments

TRENZ Unpacked -A First Time Buyer Perspective with Olivia Ponniah

This episode of The Tourism Chat Show hosted by Michelle Caldwell features Olivia Ponniah from Liv &Travel, a UK-based independent travel company launched right before the pandemic. Liv shares her experiences as a first-time attendee of the New Zealand tourism trade show, TRENZ, focusing on her search for unique New Zealand travel experiences that cater to luxury travellers. She emphasises the importance of building relationships with local suppliers and seeks to bring New Zealand closer to her clients. Liv also discusses the challenges of launching her business near the pandemic's start, her company's partnership with Major Travel, and the recent demand for travel to New Zealand from the UK market. Additionally, she talks about her strategies for maximising her time at TRENZ, gives advice to first-time attendees, and highlights the importance of sustainability and supporting local communities.

 

00:00 Launching a Travel Business Pre-Pandemic: A New Zealand Focus

00:28 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show: TRENZ Unpacked Episode

00:40 Introducing Olivia Ponniah: A First-Time Buyer's Journey to TRENZ

02:34 Building a Global Travel Business: The Story of Liv &Travel

03:43 Exploring New Zealand: Anticipations and Aspirations

04:40 Seeking Unique Travel Experiences: The Luxury of Personalisation

07:15 The Challenges and Excitements of a First-Time Buyer at TRENZ

14:26 Sustainable Tourism: Balancing Luxury and Responsibility

16:43 Maximising Time at TRENZ: Strategies for Success

18:35 Advice for First-Time Attendees: Embracing the TRENZ Experience

_______________

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:

Olivia Ponniah - https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliviaponniah/

Liv &Travel - https://livand.travel

https://www.linkedin.com/company/livand-travel/

Resources and Links to connect with us:

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

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