PODCAST · business
The Tourism Chat Show
by Destinate NZ
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
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TRENZ Unpacked: Making the Most of TRENZ
How do you make the most of TRENZ - before you arrive, during your appointments and after you get home? In the first episode of TRENZ Unpacked for 2027, Michelle Caldwell is joined by Liz Grossman from Hawke’s Bay Tourism, Anna Black from General Travel and Collette Rogers from RealNZ. Bringing...
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What’s Changing in Tourism Right Now? Five Trends Worth Watching
What’s changing in tourism right now, and what should operators actually be paying attention to? In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, Michelle looks at five trends that have stood out over the past few weeks, including Australia’s strong outbound travel market, the continued importance of...
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Cape Sanctuary: Hope, Wildlife and a 500-Year Vision
In this episode of The Tourism Chat Show, Michelle chats with Aimee Pitcher from Cape Sanctuary, a remarkable 2,500-hectare private conservation project on the Cape Kidnappers Peninsula in Hawke’s Bay. Aimee shares the story behind Cape Sanctuary’s 20-year restoration journey, from the 10.5km...
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TRENZ Unpacked: Inside TRENZ 2026: Bigger, Bolder, and Built for Impact
In this final TRENZ Unpacked episode, Michelle sits down with Rebecca Ingram, Chief Executive of Tourism Industry Aotearoa, for an inside look at what’s shaping TRENZ 2026. With the event returning to Auckland for the first time in a decade, Bex shares how this year’s theme Whakapiki – Elevating...
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TRENZ Unpacked: Auckland’s Comeback Story - New Infrastructure, New Energy, New Reasons to Stay Longer
In this episode of The Tourism Chat Show – TRENZ Unpacked, Michelle sits down with Karen Thompson-Smith, Head of Tourism at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, to explore why Auckland is stepping confidently back into the spotlight ahead of TRENZ 2026. With major infrastructure projects nearing…
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TRENZ Unpacked: From Garage Start-Up to the Global Stage
In this TRENZ Unpacked episode, Michelle catches up with Nic Mead from Auckland Sea Kayaks ahead of his first-ever TRENZ - and what it’s taken to get there. Starting a business from his garage and growing it into one of Auckland’s most respected marine tourism operators, Nic shares the journey...
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TRENZ Unpacked: Why Food Is Becoming One of New Zealand’s Biggest Travel Motivators
Food is no longer just something visitors enjoy while they’re here - it’s increasingly the reason they choose a destination in the first place. In this episode of TRENZ Unpacked, Michelle catches up with Elle Armon-Jones from The Big Foody, who has spent the past 15 years introducing visitors to...
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TRENZ Unpacked: Inside the Mind of a US Luxury Travel Advisor
In this episode of TRENZ Unpacked, Michelle chats with Sarah Johnson from Paper Ink and Passports Travel, a US-based Virtuoso travel advisor who specialises in high-end, experience-led itineraries for curious and well-travelled clients. Sarah shares what luxury travel really means in 2026 - and…
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TRENZ Unpacked: Why Group Travel Is Booming Again (and What Buyers Need From You) — with Ajay Vagha, APT
In this TRENZ Unpacked episode, Michelle chats with Ajay Vagha from APT Travel Group - a long-time group touring specialist with deep roots in New Zealand (APT’s first international destination). Ajay shares why scheduled group touring is enjoying a real resurgence, with travellers valuing the...
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TRENZ Unpacked: Turning 15 Minutes into Long-Term Revenue with Geraldine McMillan, RealNZ
In this TRENZ Unpacked episode, Michelle is joined by Geraldine “G” McMillan, Western Markets Sales Manager at RealNZ, to unpack what really drives results at TRENZ. Responsible for revenue across the UK, Europe, USA, Canada and Mexico, G shares an inside look at how one of New Zealand’s largest...
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More Than a Zipline: Legacy, Leadership & Restoring the World Through Tourism with Paul Button
In this episode, Michelle sits down with Paul Button, General Manager of Rotorua Canopy Tours, to unpack one of New Zealand’s most remarkable tourism success stories. From his early days as a whitewater raft guide chasing winters and summers around the globe, to leading one of New Zealand’s most...
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TRENZ Unpacked: The Long Game of Trade, Trust & Tourism
In the first TRENZ Unpacked episode for 2026, Michelle Caldwell is joined by industry stalwart Michel Adolphe, Chief Commercial Officer at Hind Management (home of the Sudima Hotel Group). With more than two decades of TRENZ under his belt, Michel shares a refreshingly honest look at how the…
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People Power: How Training Builds Better Tourism Businesses - with Tony Laskey
Welcome Back! In this episode, Michelle catches up with Tony Laskey, Executive Director of ServiceIQ, to talk about the state of the tourism and hospitality workforce and why investing in people has never been more important. Tony breaks down what ServiceIQ actually does in plain English, how...
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TRENZ Unpacked - Behind the Scenes with Rebecca Ingram
In the final episode of our TRENZ Unpacked series prior to the big event, Michelle chats with Rebecca Ingram, Chief Executive of Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA), just weeks out from TRENZ 2025. Together, they dive into: What’s New at TRENZ 2025 More informal networking time, a refreshed welcome...
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TRENZ Unpacked - Mastering the Art of Networking with Lou Baddiley
In this episode of The Tourism Chat Show, Michelle sits down with RotoruaNZ’s Lou Baddeley to unpack one of the most underrated – yet crucial – parts of the TRENZ experience: networking. Whether you're a natural connector or someone who dreads striking up a conversation in a coffee queue, this...
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TRENZ Unpacked - Welcome to Rotorua with Andrew Wilson
In this special episode of The Tourism Chat Show, Michelle chats with Andrew Wilson, Chief Executive of RotoruaNZ, to unpack everything Rotorua has planned for TRENZ 2025 – and let’s just say, it's shaping up to be something pretty special. Highlights include: Appointment Schedules Now Live: Get...
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From Chocolate to Chief: Kylie Ruwhiu-Karawana's Journey in Tourism Leadership
In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, hosted by Michelle Caldwell, the spotlight is once again on women in tourism. Michelle launches with exciting details about the Women in Tourism Accelerator program competition, run in conjunction with Grow Tourism and Powrsuit. The episode features Kylie...
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Breaking Barriers: Women in Tourism Career Accelerator
Breaking Barriers: Women in Tourism Leadership & the Career Accelerator Episode Summary: In this episode, Michelle is joined by three incredible wahine toa who are making waves in the tourism and leadership space: Alex Dykman from Grow Tourism, and Kristen Lunman and Natalie Ferguson from…
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Celebrating Women in Tourism this IWD - with Kerry Walker
In this special bonus episode, we celebrate International Women’s Day with Kerry Walker, CEO of Southern Discoveries. Kerry shares her journey in tourism, from starting as a hotel receptionist in Taupō to leading one of New Zealand’s top tourism businesses. She reflects on the challenges women…
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TRENZ Unpacked - Making the most of your appointment streams
Kia ora and welcome back to The Tourism Chat Show! In this TRENZ Unpacked episode, host Michelle Caldwell shares her expert tips on how to maximise your appointment streams at TRENZ 2025. If you've ever felt like you were winging it at TRENZ, running from meeting to meeting without a clear...
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TRENZ Unpacked - Tips for Sellers from a Buyer
In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle Caldwell is joined by Luke McLeod from Tāpoi Travel for a deep dive into TRENZ from a buyer's perspective. Luke, known for his straightforward approach, shares valuable insights and expectations buyers have from sellers at the event. They...
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Let's chat about Growth
In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle Caldwell discusses the current state and future of tourism growth in New Zealand. Michelle introduces the Hon Louise Upston, the new Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, and highlights her potential positive impact on the industry. The...
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TRENZ Unpacked - Launching New Products at TRENZ with Hobbiton's Henry Horne
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....
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Where Are They Now? with Guy Robinson
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...
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A very Merry Christmas wrap - with Garth, Chambers, Adele and John
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...
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TRENZ Unpacked - Mentoring Programme for Newbies with Craig Wilson
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...
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The Economic Impact of Cruise Tourism - with Jacqui Lloyd
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…
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Embracing Gen Z - with Will Cannon
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…
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Leadership Lessons in Adventure Tourism - with Anne Newman
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...
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From Switzerland to Start Ups - with Alex Diethelm
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...
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TRENZ Unpacked - Unlocking Asian Trade Channels with Cecil Potatau
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,...
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Life as a Social Media Native - with Natasha Hoffman
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…
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Making the Switch - with Tim Barke
Navigating New Zealand's Tourism: From Dive Masters to Sustainable Practices In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle dives into New Zealand's dynamic tourism industry with special guest Tim Barke. They discuss Tim's fascinating journey from dive master to General Manager of...
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TRENZ Unpacked - Heading back to TRENZ 2025 with Thomas Orr
In this episode of The Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle Caldwell introduces the 'TRENZ Unpacked' series, highlighting the significance of the ongoing TRENZ event. Special guest Thomas Orr from Helisika shares his success as a first-time exhibitor this year, focusing on initial expectations, the...
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TRENZ Unpacked - The Final Countdown with Rebecca Ingram
This episode marks the final installment of the 'TRENZ Unpacked' series on The Tourism Chat Show, where host Michelle dives deep into the anticipated TRENZ event in Wellington, featuring an exclusive interview with Rebecca Ingram, Chief Executive of Tourism Industry Aotearoa. They discuss the...
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TRENZ Unpacked - North American In-Depth with Hadyn Fitzpatrick
The episode features an interview with Hadyn Fitzpatrick from Tourism New Zealand, who shares insights on tapping into the North American market, the benefits of airline connectivity for New Zealand tourism, and the strategic approach to education and partnership in the industry. Additionally, we...
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TRENZ Unpacked - Pack your Bags for Wellington with Jo Heaton
This episode of The Tourism Chat Show hosted by Michelle Caldwell, focuses on the upcoming TRENZ 2024 event being hosted in Wellington for the first time. The episode features an in-depth discussion with Jo Heaton from WellingtonNZ, who provides insights into the event's preparations and the...
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TRENZ Unpacked -A First Time Buyer Perspective with Olivia Ponniah
This episode of The Tourism Chat Show hosted by Michelle Caldwell features Olivia Ponniah from Liv &Travel, a UK-based independent travel company launched right before the pandemic. Liv shares her experiences as a first-time attendee of the New Zealand tourism trade show, TRENZ, focusing on her...
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Fuelling change in tourism - with Grow Tourism's Alex Dykman
In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle discusses the future of the tourism industry and the role of workforce development in achieving sustainable and resilient tourism. Michelle introduces Alex Dykman from Grow Tourism, who shares insights on the inception of Grow Tourism, a…
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TRENZ Unpacked -Insights from New Exhibitors - with Thomas Orr and Paul Chaplow
In this episode of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle Caldwell introduces listeners to Thomas Orr from Helisika and Paul Chaplow from Whanganui and Partners, who are attending the tourism event TRENZ for the first time. The episode focuses on their companies' backgrounds, their motivation for...
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TRENZ Unpacked - An Industry Insider's Guide with Brad Patterson
This episode of the Tourism Chat Show, hosted by Michelle Caldwell, focuses on preparing for and maximizing the benefits of attending TRENZ. Guest Brad "Paddo' Patterson, a seasoned sales manager with over 20 years of experience at TRENZ, shares his insights. Discussion topics include the...
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Doing Business Better - with Chris Sattler
The discussion revolves around the journey of Island Aviation in Auckland, focusing on its sustainable initiatives. Chris Sattler, from Island Aviation, outlines the measures they have taken to reduce their environmental impact, their focus on community engagement, and future goals regarding...
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Are you Trade Ready?
In this edition of the Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle provides a thorough overview of how to work with trade in the tourism industry. She offers essential tips and information including refreshing market understanding, handling trade partnerships, and maintaining administrative capabilities.…
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Destination Storyteller - with Helen Hayes
In this episode of The Tourism Chat Show, host Michelle interviews Helen Hayes, a multi-award winning travel writer and editor from Australia. We delve deep into the art of storytelling in tourism. Helen shares some insider secrets about effective storytelling to attract travel media attention.…
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TRENZ Unpacked - a First Timer Perspective with Tom Collier
This episode of the Tourism Chat Show features an insightful chat with Tom Collier, the owner of Kaewa Tours. As a first-time attendee at TRENZ this year, Tom shares his experience, success, and advice for those considering attending. He advocates for the value of the TRENZ show as integral to…
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Exploring Group Travel Trends - with Peter Harding
Welcome to our 100th episode! We are excited to welcome Peter Harding, the Managing Director of Grand Pacific Tours to today's show. We'll cover off Peter's career journey, the evolution of coach touring in New Zealand, the shift towards a more discerning and intimate travel experience with…
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TRENZ Unpacked - an RTO Perspective with Lou Baddiley
We are back with our first in a series of special episodes dedicated to TRENZ. Applications have opened for sellers and buyers open today so it's time for you to start planning your international trade activity for 2024! We have Lou Baddiley from Rotorua NZ on the show today. Lou was a first…
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Navigating New Markets- with Kumar Swaminathan
Welcome to this week's episode of The Tourism Chat Show! Our guest is Kumar Swaminathan from Xperienz, and he shares fascinating insights on several topics. We delve into his journey into the US market, exploring the opportunities and challenges he's encountered along the way. Kumar also provides...
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A Life in Tourism - with Mark Quickfall
Totally Tourism's Mark Quickfall joins us on the podcast today to discuss his 30 year love affair with the tourism industry. We cover the changes and challenges he's seen throughout his time in tourism, what has changed for the better (and worse) and he shares his views on governance and advice…
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New Name, New Look - Welcome to The Tourism Chat Show
It has been a while since you've heard from us, but we are still here, and still committed to publishing great content for you to enjoy. This is a new era for our podcast, with a refreshed look and feel, new music and a great line up of guests from not only New Zealand, but around the world! This...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
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
HOSTED BY
Destinate NZ
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Tourism Chat Show have?
The Tourism Chat Show currently has 100 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Tourism Chat Show about?
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...
How often does The Tourism Chat Show release new episodes?
The Tourism Chat Show has 100 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to The Tourism Chat Show?
You can listen to The Tourism Chat Show on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Tourism Chat Show?
The Tourism Chat Show is created and hosted by Destinate NZ.
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