1000 Mile Travel Group recently celebrated its annual Australian Top Achievers Trip, bringing together its leading independent travel advisors for an unforgettable five-day experience across New Zealand. The event blended luxury, adventure, and exclusive industry insights, highlighting the exceptional performance and dedication of 1000MTG’s top performers.
The journey began in Auckland, where participants were greeted with a visit to the city’s iconic SkyTower before enjoying an elegant dinner at Cassia and an overnight stay at the luxurious Horizon Hotel. The following morning, attendees were granted exclusive access to Air New Zealand’s hangar 22 and its future cabin experience, where engineers shared insights into upcoming innovations and the intricate processes involved in readying aircraft for passengers.
From there, the group travelled north to the breathtaking Rosewood Kauri Cliffs, a property famed for its private beaches, expansive grounds, and villas offering sweeping ocean and golf course views. Advisors explored the estate on a guided tour that showcased the scenic Pink Beach, rolling farmland, and the dramatic coastline, with some guests taking the opportunity to enjoy a round on the world-class golf course.
Saturday was dedicated to adventure and relaxation, beginning with a helicopter tour of the Bay of Islands with Salt Air, followed by a luxury yacht cruise aboard Silver Wave, complete with a chef-prepared meal. Guests also enjoyed paddleboarding and an intimate kiwi encounter before unwinding under the stars during a tranquil stargazing session hosted by Kora Tours NZ. The day concluded with fine wine tasting at Marsden Estate Winery.
“What an incredible trip to recognise our Top Achievers at 1000 Mile Travel Group. Every detail was taken care of, and our advisors were treated from the moment they arrived. From Air New Zealand lounge access to luxurious accommodation, a heli tour, a round of golf, a yacht experience, and unforgettable food and wine — I’m truly grateful to our partners for making this such a memorable celebration,” said Lauren Gray, General Manager of 1000MTG Australia.
This year’s honourees included Sam Rowe, awarded Top Corporate Expert, and Kurt Hufer, named Top Leisure Expert. As Kurt was unable to attend, fellow finalist Nick Anderson represented the leisure category during the festivities. The Top Team award went to The Travel Team, led by Emily Davidson and Stephanie McDonald.
“What a wonderful five days in New Zealand. The hospitality of our suppliers and hosts was just magic, creating such a memorable experience. The property at Rosewood and the staff were brilliant, and the scenery was spectacular. Thank you, everyone, for a fantastic trip,” said Emily Davidson.
Ben Jenke earned the Rising Star title for his impressive growth and momentum. “Fantastic trip to Auckland and the Bay of Islands with some colleagues. Everything was perfect — thank you to Air NZ, Sky City Horizon, Rosewood Estate Kauri Cliffs, and Lauren Gray for organising. I’m very grateful,” he said.
Amy Crossland received Most Engaged Expert, recognising her outstanding contribution to the 1000MTG community. “Our 1000 Mile Top Achievers trip to the Bay of Islands was truly unforgettable. This is such a stunning and underrated part of New Zealand. We were extremely spoiled by Rosewood Kauri Cliffs — the food, the rooms, and the experience were out of this world, but it was the exceptional staff that made it truly special,” she said.
Sam Rowe reflected on the trip with enthusiasm, adding, “We had a wonderful Top Achievers trip to New Zealand. We were looked after superbly by Air New Zealand, Rosewood Estate Kauri Cliffs, and Horizon Sky City Auckland. I had the privilege of playing one of the top 50 golf courses in the world, enjoyed helicopter tours, cruises, fantastic food, and stunning scenery. We even got lucky with the weather. Loved every minute of it!”
1000 Mile Travel Group extended special thanks to its valued partners and hosts, including Camryn Rathbone from Air New Zealand, Sam Johnson from Sky City Hotels Group and Horizon Hotel, Natasha Little-Weastell and Fraser Wong from Rosewood Hotels, Paul Linton at Northland Inc, Jodie from Salt Air, Kora Tours NZ, and Black Robin Transfers.
The 2025 Top Achievers Trip not only honoured the company’s best-performing advisors but also reflected the heart of 1000MTG — celebrating excellence, fostering community, and inspiring travel professionals to reach new heights.
