Q: What was it that inspired you to join the travel industry?
A: It was the idea that I could live and breathe every day what most people only get to experience on their holidays.
I’ve always been drawn to that sense of discovery – new places, cultures, landscapes – and the thought of turning that into a lifestyle rather than just a break from routine was incredibly exciting.
Travel has a way of shifting perspectives and creating connection, and being part of that every day is something I never take for granted.
Q: What is it about the travel industry that you enjoy the most?
A: I love that you’re surrounded by people who are as passionate about seeing the world as you are.
It feels like every day you get to experience the best of what this planet has to offer – through the places we go, but also through the people we meet and work with.
Q: If you hadn’t gone into travel, what other career path might you have taken?
A: Good question. I’d probably be off somewhere trying to figure out what makes people tick – maybe psychology?
I’ve always loved hearing people’s stories, so I think I’d still end up in a role where I get to dig into human nature, just without the boarding passes!
Q: What advice would you give someone wanting to start a career in travel?
A: Be a risk taker and know when you fail, get back up again and know that something great will come from it. Be open-minded and adaptable.
The industry is constantly evolving: technology, traveller expectations and sustainability priorities are reshaping how we operate. Build your skills, network widely.
Q: What’s the first thing you do when you start a new position?
A: Listen and learn. Every company has its own culture and rhythm, and I think it’s essential to understand the people and the business before setting strategy.
I always spend time connecting with colleagues at every level to get a sense of what’s working well and where the opportunities lie.
Q: How do you think the travel industry is looking at this moment in time?
A: It’s an incredibly exciting and dynamic time. Travellers are seeking deeper, more purposeful experiences and there’s a growing appetite for small-group, responsible travel.
At the same time, we’re all navigating global challenges from climate change to shifting consumer priorities. The opportunity lies in responding with creativity, authenticity and sustainability at the heart of what we do.
Q: Who would you most like to sit next to on a plane, living or dead?
A: Sir Ernest Shackleton. His leadership, resilience and sense of adventure continue to inspire me, and of course, his Antarctic legacy is deeply tied to what we do at Aurora Expeditions. I imagine he would have some remarkable stories to share at 10,000 metres.
Q: What are some of your favourite spots around the world?
A: I’ve got so many favourite spots around the world, but the ones that really stay with me are places where I feel connected – to the land, the people and the culture.
New Zealand, my homeland, will always be at the top of the list. There’s a grounding energy to it that’s hard to describe.
Kenya (above) is another favourite. The landscapes and wildlife there are just magic, like nowhere else.
And Colombia has this incredible energy, with cultures coming together and scenery that feels almost too beautiful to be real.
Q: What is your best travel story?
A: One of the most amazing travel experiences I’ve had was trekking to Machu Picchu and sleeping under the stars.
Out there, surrounded by mountains, I felt the most blissful connection to the planet and just how minute I am in the grand scheme of things. Totally humbling and unforgettable.
Q: What are you most looking forward to about working with Aurora Expeditions?
A: I’m looking forward to help scale Aurora as we enter new markets and destinations while staying true to the incredible, sustainability-driven values the team lives every day.
I’m excited to share the amazing stories of our expeditioners, work alongside such passionate people and play a part in shaping the next chapter of the brand.
