Q: What was your first job and what did you learn from it that you still use today?
A: My first job was after school in a delicatessen in our local supermarket. It was a crash course in customer service and multi-tasking, from food prep (back then it was good old fashioned handmade salads and meals), chatting to customers and all the general tasks involved in the role.
Key takeaways from this role were how to stay cool under pressure, being accountable for my actions and the importance of working as part of a team, skills that have stayed with me in every role I do.
Q: What’s the first thing you do when you start a new position?
A: My priority is to take the time to meet with team leaders across all departments to understand how each role contributes to the bigger picture, what their expectations are and to gain insights, advice and pick up any tips that might help me hit the ground running and set me up for success.
Building these connections early not only helps me learn faster, it fosters collaboration and shows that I’m here to be part of the team.
Q: What advice would you give someone wanting to start a career in travel now?
A: Jump in, be curious and engage in as many training sessions and events as you can – the more you learn, the more confident you will feel.
Build strong relationships as the industry is built on connection so network wherever you can.
Don’t be afraid to start at the bottom – the travel world is full of people who have worked their way up.
Most importantly, love what you do as the passion is what sets you apart! This is truly the best industry to be part of.
Q: If you hadn’t gone into travel, what career path might you have taken?
A: I think the police force would’ve been a strong contender. I have always been drawn to roles that involve helping people, thinking quickly on my feet and being part of something bigger, plus, let’s be honest, the uniform has its appeal too!
There’s something about being in a team that’s out there making a real difference every day that’s always resonated with me.
Q: How do you think the travel industry is looking at this moment in time?
A: The travel industry feels like it’s in a strong position right now. There is a real appetite for meaningful experiences, especially domestic and New Zealand guided travel, where people want more than just a holiday. They want connections, experiences and value for money.
Yes, there are still challenges, rising costs and a bit of economic caution, but overall demand feels high, confidence is returning and travellers are leaning on agents and trusted brands more than ever to help them navigate it all.
Overall, it feels busy, exciting and full of opportunity.
Q: Who would you most like to sit next to on a plane, living or dead?
A: Barack Obama. Anytime he speaks I can’t help but sit up and listen as he is such an inspirational man.
Reality is, however, I would be completely star struck and probably trip into my seat and land on him in the most embarrassing way!
He comes across as genuinely down-to-earth and easy to talk to. I can just imagine sharing a laugh with him, hearing his experience in politics, basketball or books… and the life advice, that would be next level!
Q: What are some of your favourite spots around the world and why?
Hawaii: It has the perfect mix of friendly locals, shopping, beaches, food and nature. You can go from relaxed vibes sipping a cocktail next to the pool, to chasing waterfalls and volcanoes, and ending the day enjoying the culture of a Luau.
Europe: With so many countries, cultures and cuisines packed into one continent, how can you not love it, or choose just one country as your favourite! I love the history, architecture, the ease of getting around and of course… the food and wine!
I am truly blessed to have spent two years travelling around on a hop-on, hop-off coach in my younger years. That experience and growth moment shaped who I am today and ultimately was the decider in my pursuing a career in the travel industry.
Queenstown, NZ: It’s like stepping into a postcard, with snow-capped peaks to stunning lakes and an adventure around every corner. I love how easy it is to get from one epic experience to the next; one day you can be zip lining through nature, the next sipping wine in a vineyard or soaking in a hot spring.
Plus, the locals are some of the friendliest people you will ever meet…just ask me!
Q: What is your best travel story?
A: This is a tough one with more than 30 years of exploring and working in travel!
In my early travel days I went full backpacker style on my first big overseas trip, cruising from Venice to Athens without a cabin. Yep, a large group of us just slept up on the top deck under the stars.
We partied in the night club and in our designated area all night, not realising how wild the Aegean Sea can get. Let’s just say we spent most of the night rolling from one side of the deck to the other.
The return trip gifted me with a case of delayed seasickness, right in the middle of the Venetian canals. I can guide you to every public toilet in the city!
It was chaotic, hilarious and somehow still a core travel memory. But fun fact: I haven’t stepped foot on a cruise ship since!
Q: What are you most looking forward to about working with AAT Kings?
A: Being part of a brand with such a rich history in Australian and New Zealand travel.
AAT Kings has been showcasing the best of Australasia for more than 100 years and I am excited to help continue that legacy, working alongside passionate agents, delivering memorable experiences for travellers and bringing some fresh energy to our trade partnerships.
