The Tourism Chat Show

Hosted by Destinate NZ

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100

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Oct 2026

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About the 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

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October 13, 2026Episode 14640 min

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 regional, buyer and seller perspectives, they share practical advice on turning your investment in TRENZ into valuable relationships and business opportunities. We discuss how to set clear objectives, research buyers and ensure your business is trade ready. On the event floor, we explore asking better questions, listening to what buyers need and making the most of conversations beyond your scheduled appointments. Afterwards, it’s about timely, personalised follow-up and working with your inbound partners to keep opportunities moving. The panel also explains why results take time - and why success isn’t always measured in immediate bookings. Whether you’re preparing for your first TRENZ, returning with new goals or building towards attending in the future, this conversation will help you develop a stronger plan. _____________________________________________________________ Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch! This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰 Today's Guests Anna Black: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-black-4b002766/ Liz Grossman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-grossman-0566b031/ Collette Rogers: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collette-rogers/ For more info on TRENZ: https://www.trenz.co.nz/ Resources and Links to connect with us: Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/ Website: www.destinatenz.com If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

September 29, 2026Episode 14518 min

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 travel trade, AI moving closer to the booking stage, the rise of event-led travel, and the changing definition of premium experiences. She also introduces Destinate’s new Weekly Roundup series, created to cut through the noise and focus on the tourism sales, marketing and distribution developments that have practical implications for owner-operated tourism businesses. Read it here: https://www.destinatenz.com/knowledgehub/categories/the-destinate-weekly-roundup A useful listen if you want a quick read on what’s changing, why it matters, and where the opportunities might be. _____________________________________________________ Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch! This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰 Resources and Links to connect with us: Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/ Website: www.destinatenz.com If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

May 26, 2026Episode 14427 min

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 predator-proof fence to the return of 23 locally extinct species, more than one million native trees planted, and the extraordinary contribution of over 200 active volunteers. The conversation explores the importance of private conservation, the power of long-term vision, and why tourism - done carefully and intentionally - could help support the sanctuary’s future. Aimee also shares why the Ocean Beach side of Cape Sanctuary is now becoming a key focus for future visitor experiences, with its restored dunes, wildlife, coastal landscapes and deeply layered conservation story. _______________________________________________ Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch! This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰 Today's Guest Aimee Pitcher: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aimee-pitcher-7202a4262/ For more info on Cape Sanctuary: https://www.capesanctuary.co.nz/ Resources and Links to connect with us: Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/ Website: www.destinatenz.com If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

May 12, 2026Episode 14341 min

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 Aotearoa New Zealand Tourism to the World is being brought to life through new initiatives, global insights, and a strong focus on delivering real value for both buyers and sellers. Michelle and Bex dive into: The introduction of the International Media Marketplace and VIP Summit, bringing global media and top travel CEOs to TRENZ A refreshed TRENZ Talks programme, offering insights into global trends, AI, and consumer behaviour The evolving event format, including more informal networking opportunities The incredible behind-the-scenes effort (and surprisingly small core team!) that delivers TRENZ each year How advanced appointment matching technology connects the right buyers and sellers Why post-event feedback plays a critical role in shaping future events TIA’s wider role supporting the industry through global uncertainty, AI disruption, workforce challenges, and crisis response Bex also shares why she remains optimistic about the future of New Zealand tourism, pointing to strong foundations, world-class experiences, and continued global demand. As the industry heads into TRENZ week, her advice is simple: know your appointment book, prepare well, and make the most of every opportunity. ______________________________________________ Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch! This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰 Today's Guest Rebecca Ingram: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-ingram-8450208/ For more info on TRENZ: https://www.trenz.co.nz/ Resources and Links to connect with us: Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/ Website: www.destinatenz.com If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

May 5, 2026Episode 14226 min

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 completion, new hotel investment across the city, and the long-awaited opening of the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), Auckland is entering a new phase - and the tourism sector is feeling the momentum. Karen shares what buyers can expect to discover at TRENZ this year, highlights new and emerging visitor experiences across the region, and explains why Auckland is increasingly being seen as more than just a gateway city. From golf and kiwi spotting at Tāwharanui to Waiheke Island adventures, cultural storytelling across the maunga, and a rapidly evolving food scene - there are more reasons than ever to stay longer in Auckland. They also discuss the growing importance of culinary tourism, the role of major events in driving visitation (including strong Australian demand), and what success will look like for Auckland as the industry gathers in the city for TRENZ. If you're heading to TRENZ - or simply curious about where Auckland’s visitor story is heading next - this conversation is the perfect preview of what’s to come. ______________________________________________ Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch! This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰 Today's Guest Karen Thompson-Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-thompson-smith-69a1188/ For more info on TRENZ: https://www.trenz.co.nz/ Resources and Links to connect with us: Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/ Website: www.destinatenz.com If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

April 28, 2026Episode 14127 min

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 behind Auckland Sea Kayaks and the deep connection to place that sits at the heart of their experiences across the Hauraki Gulf. He reflects on winning the Excellence in Community Engagement category at the Tourism Awards in 2025 and being a finalist in the Excellence in Business (Micro) category - recognition that has helped raise the profile of the business and opened new conversations across the industry. Nic also talks candidly about what it really means to become trade ready, why attending TRENZ has always been part of a longer-term strategy, and the preparation required before stepping onto the international stage. From refining products specifically for trade to researching the right buyers and focusing on alignment over volume, this episode is packed with practical insight for operators considering their own first TRENZ. It’s a thoughtful and honest conversation about timing, relationships, and building a business strong enough to grow into the opportunities the travel trade can bring. ______________________________________________ Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch! This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰 Today's Guest Nic Mead - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nic-mead-8a218120/ For more info on TRENZ: https://www.trenz.co.nz/ Resources and Links to connect with us: Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/ Website: www.destinatenz.com If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

April 23, 2026Episode 14025 min

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 New Zealand through curated culinary experiences across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and cruise ports around the country. They explore how food tours help visitors understand the deeper story of a destination, why Auckland’s dining scene is having a real moment right now, and what international travellers are increasingly looking for when they book culinary experiences in New Zealand. Elle shares insights into emerging trends in food tourism, the growing demand for hands-on experiences like markets and cooking sessions, and why storytelling and human connection are still the most powerful ingredients in any visitor experience. They also talk about what buyers attending TRENZ should notice about Auckland this year - and why the city deserves more than just a gateway stop on a New Zealand itinerary. Plus, Ellie shares her top Auckland recommendations for delegates with a free evening between appointments. If you’re heading to TRENZ - or simply interested in how food is shaping the future of visitor experiences in New Zealand - this episode is packed with inspiration. ______________________________________________ Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch! This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰 Today's Guest Elle Armon-Jones - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thebigfoody/ For more info on TRENZ: https://www.trenz.co.nz/ Resources and Links to connect with us: Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/ Website: www.destinatenz.com If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

April 19, 2026Episode 13949 min

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 why it’s less about thread counts and more about access, uniqueness, and trusted relationships. She explains how advisors work with DMCs and vetted suppliers, what helps a New Zealand experience stand out in an itinerary, and why orientation experiences like food tours and cultural walks can be incredibly powerful for first-time visitors. They also explore where New Zealand sits in the competitive landscape right now (spoiler: Europe is hot for US travellers), what advisors are hoping to discover at TRENZ, and how operators can make the most of their appointments - especially when meeting luxury buyers for the first time. Packed with practical tips on pitching, follow-up, and building genuine relationships, this episode is essential listening for operators preparing for TRENZ or wanting to better understand how Virtuoso-level advisors select experiences for their clients. ______________________________________________ Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch! This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰 Today's Guest Sarah Johnson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahelisabethjohnson/ Paper Ink and Passports Travel - https://www.paperinkandpassports.com/ For more info on TRENZ: https://www.trenz.co.nz/ Resources and Links to connect with us: Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/ Website: www.destinatenz.com If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

March 26, 2026Episode 13836 min

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 comfort, security and simplicity of having everything taken care of - from airport transfers to luggage handling, priority access, and expert tour commentary. From an operator perspective, Ajay explains why group travel can be a smart “baseline” revenue stream: it’s typically booked well in advance, helps with budgeting, staffing and forecasting, and can support shoulder-season cashflow. He also unpacks what APT looks for when selecting experiences: products that are premium and authentic, not “cookie cutter,” plus operators who understand tight touring timelines, can offer flexible timing, and occasionally add something small-but-bespoke to help guests feel special. Ajay busts a big myth: group business isn’t immediate. Their planning cycles run long - often 24+ months - with discussions already reaching into 2027–29. He shares what makes a great TRENZ appointment (spoiler: preparation wins), what buyers need operators to have ready (rates timelines, cancellation policies, group terms, imagery - delivered digitally), and why building relationships matters even if you’re not the right fit yet. Finally, he flags emerging trends: growth in small group touring, slower-paced travel, longer itineraries, and rising interest in places like Napier, Blenheim and Kaikōura alongside the classic icons. ______________________________________________ Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch! This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰 Today's Guest Ajay Vagha - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajay-vagha-ba126b8/ For more info on TRENZ: https://www.trenz.co.nz/ TRENZ Appointments close 31 March 2026. Resources and Links to connect with us: Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/ Website: www.destinatenz.com If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast

March 10, 2026Episode 13737 min

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 tourism operators approaches the biggest onshore trade show of the year — and why the real value of TRENZ extends far beyond the 15-minute appointments. From pre-show preparation and strategic appointment planning to follow-up discipline and measuring ROI through CRM systems like HubSpot, this episode is packed with practical advice for both first-time exhibitors and seasoned operators. They discuss: Whether deals are actually “done” at TRENZ Why follow-up is where the real money is made How to maximise ROI (even as a smaller operator) The risk of not showing up Western market trends, including changing lead times and strong US performance The power of inbound partnerships and trade relationships If you’re wondering whether TRENZ is worth the investment — or how to get more traction from it — this episode is essential listening. ___________________________________________________________ Powered by https://www.destinatenz.com If you, or someone you work with has a great tourism story to share, and would like to come onto the show, please get in touch! This is an independent podcast by tourism strategist Michelle Caldwell. We are absolutely dedicated to bringing you the best tourism business stories and sharing marketing tips and strategies to your ears each week! The best way you can support The Tourism Chat Show is by subscribing, leaving a (rave!) review, (five star!) rating and spreading the word on social media with your friends, family, and colleagues- we love you for that! 🥰 Today's Guest Geraldine McMillan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/geraldine-mcmillan-a4a2a8b0/ For more info on TRENZ: https://www.trenz.co.nz/ Resources and Links to connect with us: Love the show? You can support us by buying a coffee ☕️ here — https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DestinateNZ Share you thoughts and say hi to us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetourismchatshow Michelle Caldwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekcaldwell/ Website: www.destinatenz.com If you'd like to advertise or feature on the show, please check out our media kit - https://www.destinatenz.com/podcast