The Tourism Chat Show

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Kia ora and Welcome to The Tourism Chat Show, your passport to the world of travel and tourism! Hosted by Michelle Caldwell, an experienced senior marketer in the NZ Tourism Industry, you will be taken on a captivating journey through the industry. Join us every Wednesday as we explore the insights, stories, and wisdom of tourism’s brightest minds and most fascinating personalities. Whether you’re an industry veteran, or just starting out, or you’re just curious about the latest tourism trends and tips, this podcast is your ultimate destination for all things tourism. So fasten your seatbelts, and let’s embark on this exciting adventure together! Powered by: Destinate NZ www.destinatenz.com

Episodes

Jan 22, 2025

TRENZ Unpacked - Launching New Products at TRENZ with Hobbiton's Henry Horne

Jan 22, 2025

41 min

In this episode of The Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle Caldwell interviews Henry Horne from Hobbiton Movie Set and Tours. Celebrating the second episode of 2025, the discussion dives into the transformative journey of Hobbiton from its inception in 2002 to becoming a leading attraction today. Henry shares insights on the importance of trade relationships, the impact of the Tourism Industry event TRENZ, and strategies for launching new tourism products. He also provides valuable advice for smaller operators looking to enhance their trade presence. Listeners are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at Hobbiton's growth, the challenges they faced, and their new offerings, including the premium 'Behind the Scenes Tour.'

00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show

00:32 Introduction to TRENZ Unpacked

00:55 Interview with Henry Horne from Hobbiton

03:10 The Early Days of Hobbiton

04:28 Building Trade Relationships

11:52 Unexpected Successes and Partnerships

14:34 Strategies for Trade Show Success

18:53 Advice for Smaller Tourism Businesses

21:34 Measuring Success at Trade Shows

24:49 Future of TRENZ and Hobbiton

27:56 New Product Launches at Hobbiton

38:24 Final Thoughts and Farewell

_______________________________________

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:

Henry Horne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henry-horne-17921bb1/

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

Jan 15, 2025

Where Are They Now? with Guy Robinson

Jan 15, 2025

37 min

This is our first episode in a series of 'Where Are They Now?' - chatting with tourism legends who have moved on.

In this episode, Michelle chats with Guy Robinson about his extensive career in the tourism industry, including his roles at Ansett New Zealand, Budget Rent A Car, and Avis Budget Group. Guy discusses the impact of COVID-19 on his career, his brief stints in various roles, and his current position at Ace Rentals. Reflecting on both challenges and memorable moments, Guy offers insights on resilience, the evolving tourism landscape, and the importance of diverse revenue channels. This episode provides a rich portrait of a dynamic career shaped by global events and industry shifts.

00:00 Introduction and New Year's Greetings

06:34 Guy Current Role and Location

08:17 Tourism Career Beginnings

09:28 Long Tenure at Budget Rent A Car

11:41 Impact of COVID-19 on Career

13:11 Post-COVID Career Ventures

17:39 Skills and Resilience in Tourism

22:57 Memorable Moments in Tourism

28:57 Current Thoughts and Future in Tourism

35:45 Closing Remarks 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!

Today's Guest:

Guy Robinson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/guy-robinson-58b8b619/

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

Dec 18, 2024

A very Merry Christmas wrap - with Garth, Chambers, Adele and John

Dec 18, 2024

44 min

In this special (and slightly chaotic!) Christmas episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle is joined by an incredible lineup of guests: Adele Marsden from New Zealand Educational Tours, Lisa Chambers dialing in from Cairns Adventure Group, Garth Oakden of Tongariro River Rafting, and John Gregory from Terranova Tours.

Together, they take a light-hearted look back at 2024, sharing highlights like business expansions, awards, and personal milestones (weddings included!). The group doesn’t shy away from discussing the year’s challenges, including non-refundable deposits and shifting travel patterns.

Looking ahead to 2025, the conversation turns to dreams of diversification, prioritizing self-care, and strengthening industry support networks. This festive episode wraps up with reflections on successes and aspirations for the year to come.

Join us for laughs, insights, and a toast to the future!

00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show

00:17 Meet the Special Guests

01:26 Highlights of 2024

04:19 Challenges Faced in 2024

06:57 Key Learnings and Future Outlook

18:51 Adventure Tourism Trends

23:41 Responsibilities of Managing Young Travellers

24:38 Trends in New Zealand Tourism

26:03 Challenges in Tourism Funding

29:34 Tourism Industry Collaboration

32:15 New Roles and Opportunities

37:24 Holiday Plans and Reflections

42:06 Podcast and Future Plans

42:53 Conclusion and Holiday Wishes

_____________________________

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!

Today's Guest:

Lisa Chambers: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-chambers-84650a22/

Lisa's new podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6atx31C8mNOqGMqTiRmEfN?si=dfba9152a9dc45df

Garth Oakden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garth-oakden-10ab6b21/

John Gregory: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-gregory-9a201452/

Adele Marsden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adele-marsden-17a5603b/

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

Dec 11, 2024

TRENZ Unpacked - Mentoring Programme for Newbies with Craig Wilson

Dec 11, 2024

18 min

In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show's 'TRENZ Unpacked' series, host Michelle welcomes Craig Wilson, a veteran mentor for the TRENZ new exhibitor programme. Craig shares expert advice for first-time exhibitors, highlighting how to prepare marketing materials, make the most of networking and formal appointments, and the importance of post-TRENZfollow-ups. He also discusses the mentoring programme, offering insights to ensure new exhibitors have a successful engagement at TRENZ. Tune in to learn valuable tips from Craig's extensive experience in the tourism industry.

00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show

00:21 Introduction to Craig Wilson and TRENZ Unpacked

01:08 Maximizing Your TRENZ Opportunities

01:30 Importance of the Mentoring Program

02:26 Interview with Craig Wilson

04:15 Common Mistakes and Tips for Exhibitors

05:34 Trade Pricing and Networking Strategies

10:46 Building Meaningful Relationships at TRENZ

15:44 Success Stories and Final Advice

17:25 Conclusion and Farewell

__________________________________

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!

Today's Guest:

Craig Wilson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-wilson-46615210/

Quality Tourism Development - https://www.linkedin.com/company/quality-tourism-development-ltd/

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

Dec 4, 2024

The Economic Impact of Cruise Tourism - with Jacqui Lloyd

Dec 4, 2024

45 min

In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle Caldwell welcomes Jacqui Lloyd, Chief Executive of the New Zealand Cruise Association, for an insightful discussion. Jacqui provides an update on the economic impact of cruise tourism in New Zealand, highlighting the findings of a recent study conducted by the AEC group. The conversation covers various topics, including significant economic contributions, regional benefits, rising costs, regulatory complexities, and trends in the global cruise sector. Jacqui also addresses the challenges faced by the industry and outlines her priorities for 2025, focusing on data collection, government relations, and collaborative efforts to enhance cruise tourism in New Zealand.

00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show

01:18 Upcoming Episodes and Listener Appreciation

02:43 Introduction to Jacqui Lloyd and Cruise Industry Update

03:30 Economic Impact Assessment Findings

07:01 Challenges and Future of Cruise Tourism in New Zealand

18:29 Comparing New Zealand and Australian Cruise Industries

20:06 Collaboration and Advocacy in the Tourism Sector

23:07 Public Perception and Social License of Cruise Tourism

25:00 Optimising Passenger Logistics

25:22 Economic Impact of Cruise Tourism

25:59 Funny Anecdote from Picton

28:25 Trends in the Cruise Sector

30:19 Accessible Travel and Immersive Experiences

33:17 Innovations in Cruise Ship Technology

34:05 Sustainability and Future Fuels

36:46 National Strategy and Government Relations

39:57 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook

___________________

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!

Today's Guest:

Jacqui Lloyd - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqui-lloyd-36490018/

New Zealand Cruise Association - https://newzealandcruiseassociation.com/the-value-of-cruise-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

Nov 27, 2024

Embracing Gen Z - with Will Cannon

Nov 27, 2024

30 min

In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle welcomes Will Cannon, an Experience Supervisor at Weta Unleashed and the 2024 Young Tourism Export Council Rising Star Award winner.

Will discusses the significant influence of Gen Z in tourism, offering insights on how businesses can attract this dynamic audience. He emphasises the importance of sustainability, transparency, and inclusiveness in engaging Gen Z both as visitors and employees.

Will also shares his journey in the tourism industry and provides actionable advice for future planning, making this an episode filled with valuable takeaways for tourism professionals.

00:00 Welcome to the Tourism Chat Show

00:25 Introducing Will Cannon: Rising Star in Tourism

02:08 Will's Journey in the Tourism Industry

07:51 The Potential of Gen Z in Tourism

12:01 Engaging Gen Z: Insights and Strategies

19:35 Brands and Trends Shaping the Future

24:15 Creating Memorable Experiences at Weta Unleashed

27:53 Final Thoughts and Advice for Tourism Businesses

___________________

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!

Today's Guest:

Will Cannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-cannon-568807323/

Weta Unleashed: https://tours.wetaworkshop.com/unleashed/tickets/

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

Nov 20, 2024

Leadership Lessons in Adventure Tourism - with Anne Newman

Nov 20, 2024

34 min

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!

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

Nov 13, 2024

From Switzerland to Start Ups - with Alex Diethelm

Nov 13, 2024

37 min

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!

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

Nov 4, 2024

TRENZ Unpacked - Unlocking Asian Trade Channels with Cecil Potatau

Nov 4, 2024

40 min

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!

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

Oct 30, 2024

Life as a Social Media Native - with Natasha Hoffman

Oct 30, 2024

32 min

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