Sally Laurie Reservations Consultant Born and currently living in New Zealand, Sally is one of the most experienced reservation consultants at NZH, and she takes special satisfaction in tailoring custom itineraries to her clients. We asked Sally a few questions about New Zealand travel and her work in the Travel Industry in general. Read along to know what she had to say. … Where are you based in New Zealand? I’m based in Whangamatā, a lovely spot on the southeast coast of the Coromandel Peninsula in the North Island. It’s a great place with beautiful beaches. … Left: Moeraki Boulders (South Island); Right: exploring Tongariro National Park (North Island). … How many years have you been working in the travel industry? I’ve been in the travel industry for 21 years. It’s been an exciting journey helping people explore amazing places! … Can you share a memorable experience or a challenging booking you successfully managed? One standout experience was organising a 22-day trip for a family of four who were venturing out of Australia for the first time. There were lots of questions and emails back and forth, but I managed to tick off everything on their bucket list. They came back with fantastic feedback, saying everything went smoothly and they had a blast on their first overseas holiday. They even recommended us to their friends and family! … What do you enjoy most about helping clients plan their trips? I love crafting itineraries that match people’s interests and knowing they’re going to have a great time. It’s really satisfying to see them enjoy a holiday that’s perfectly tailored to their tastes. … Do you have a favourite New Zealand destination or travel experience that you recommend to travellers? Rotorua is definitely my top pick. There’s so much to do, and it’s a fantastic place for families with activities for everyone. Plus, the local Māori culture is really special. My family and I always have a blast there and make it a point to visit at least once a year. … How do you stay updated with travel trends and industry developments? I keep up with travel trends by hitting up trade shows, attending supplier meetings, following operators on LinkedIn, and signing up for travel newsletters. It’s all about staying in the loop! … What tips or advice do you have for travellers planning to visit New Zealand? If you’re planning a self-drive holiday, make sure to check driving times and distances between regions. New Zealand might seem small on a map, but some roads can be narrow and winding. It’s a good idea to take regular breaks to keep your drive enjoyable and safe. .
