The Tourism Chat Show

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 

Fuelling change in tourism - with Grow Tourism's Alex Dykman

In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle discusses the future of the tourism industry and the role of workforce development in achieving sustainable and resilient tourism. Michelle introduces Alex Dykman from Grow Tourism, who shares insights on the inception of Grow Tourism, a SaaS product aimed at providing contemporary, engaging, and practical learning experiences for tourism professionals. The company aims to support the industry's transformation towards sustainability, resilience, and commercial viability. Alex explains the challenges traditional education faces in keeping pace with industry changes and highlights Grow Tourism's agile, future-focused curriculum designed around five pillars for delivering high-value tourism outcomes. The episode also covers the pricing model, the benefits of professional development, and the potential for expanding Grow Tourism internationally.

_______________

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 Dykman - https://www.linkedin.com/in/adykman/

Grow Tourism - https://growtourism.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/grow-tourism/

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 -Insights from New Exhibitors - with Thomas Orr and Paul Chaplow

In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle Caldwell introduces listeners to Thomas Orr from Helisika  and Paul Chaplow from Whanganui and Partners, who are attending the tourism event TRENZ for the first time. The episode focuses on their companies' backgrounds, their motivation for participating in TRENZ, and their preparation strategies. Thomas Orr discusses Helisika's approach to showcasing their helicopter-based adventure services and their hopes for gaining exposure. Paul Chaplow shares Whanganui and Partners' goals to present their region's offerings, focusing on arts, heritage, and their aspiration to attract more international visitors. Both guests discuss their expectations and the long-term relationship-building purpose of attending TRENZ.

00:00 Unlocking the Secrets of Inbound Tourism Operators

 

00:29 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show: TRENZ Unpacked

 

02:41 First-Time Exhibitors at Trends: Helisika's Journey

 

04:38 Exploring the New Frontier: Kaimanawa Alpine Adventures

 

06:58 Preparing for Trends: Strategies and Expectations

 

08:20 Sharing the Spotlight: The Benefits of Collaboration

 

11:42 A Fresh Perspective: Whanganui and Partners at TRENZ

 

17:37 Setting the Stage for Success at TRENZ 

 

This podcast has been produced with the support of Tourism Industry Aotearoa - the hosts and organisers of TRENZ. 

_______________________________

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/

Paul Chaplow - https://discoverwhanganui.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 - An Industry Insider's Guide with Brad Patterson

This episode of the Tourism Chat Show, hosted by Michelle Caldwell, focuses on preparing for and maximizing the benefits of attending TRENZ. Guest Brad "Paddo' Patterson, a seasoned sales manager with over 20 years of experience at TRENZ, shares his insights.

Discussion topics include the importance of follow-ups, effectively selecting and scheduling appointments, researching buyers, and strategically approaching different types of sales calls. Brad emphasizes the value of relationship-building, both before and during the event, as well as the importance of respecting every appointment.

The conversation also touches on common mistakes exhibitors make and offers advice on avoiding them. Additionally, Brad shares personal anecdotes and advice on family travel destinations within New Zealand. The episode concludes with quick-fire questions to know more about Paddo personally.

 

00:00 Introduction to Market Research

00:40 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show

00:57 Preparing for Trends

01:22 Introduction to the Guest Speaker

01:47 Engaging with the Tourism Chat Show

02:48 Trends Unpacked: An Interview with Brad Patterson

03:23 Understanding the Tourism Industry

04:04 The Evolution of Trends

06:23 Brad Patterson's Journey in Tourism

11:33 The Importance of Understanding Your Business

13:47 Strategies for Securing Appointments with Buyers

16:48 The Importance of Networking in Tourism

17:40 Common Mistakes in Tourism Marketing

27:00 The Importance of Making Connections at Events

27:50 Overcoming Introversion at Large Events

28:22 Learning from Industry Veterans

29:14 Navigating Different Markets

29:45 The Importance of Asking for Help

30:12 The Impact of COVID on the Industry

31:27 The Importance of Follow-Up After Events

34:08 Understanding the Importance of Inbound Operators

35:08 The Challenges of Changing Rates

36:11 The Importance of Preparation for Events

40:52 The Value of Building Relationships at Events

41:43 The Cost of Attending Events

46:03 The Importance of Networking at Events

46:50 Final Thoughts and Quick Fire Questions

47:08 Favorite New Zealand Destinations

 

 

This podcast has been produced with the support of Tourism Industry Aotearoa - the hosts and organisers of TRENZ. 

_______________________________

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:

Brad Patterson - www.totallytourism.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 

 

Doing Business Better - with Chris Sattler

The discussion revolves around the journey of Island Aviation in Auckland, focusing on its sustainable initiatives. Chris Sattler, from Island Aviation, outlines the measures they have taken to reduce their environmental impact, their focus on community engagement, and future goals regarding sustainable aviation technologies. Some of these efforts include reforestation projects and carbon offsetting. He also candidly discusses the complexity of transitioning to electric or hydrogen powered aircraft, citing significant infrastructure and regulation hurdles. Sattler stresses the importance of collaboration with other stakeholders, be it regulators, fuel companies, or customers, to achieve long-term sustainability goals.

 

00:00 Introduction and Challenges of Switching to Electric Aircraft

02:57 Meet Chris Sattler from Island Aviation

03:22 The Journey of Island Aviation

05:28 Sustainability Initiatives at Island Aviation

07:57 Measuring and Offsetting Emissions

09:15 Engaging Customers in Sustainability

10:45 Challenges in Measuring Sustainability

12:16 Community Engagement and Sustainability

22:20 Future Goals and Milestones in Sustainability

31:12 Promoting Sustainability and Engaging Stakeholders

36:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

 

__________________________

 

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:

Chris Sattler LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-sattler-023335/

Island Aviation - https://islandaviation.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