The Tourism Chat Show

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 awarded visitor experiences, Paul shares his journey into tourism leadership and the culture that drives Rotorua Canopy Tours.

This conversation goes far beyond ziplining.

Paul reveals:

How founder James Fitzgerald set out to create “the most engaging zipline experience in the world” - and why the zipline itself only makes up three minutes of the tour.

How conservation became central to the business, removing 800 pests in the first week and sparking a long-term biodiversity commitment.

Why visitor experience excellence is simple - but incredibly hard to deliver consistently.

The power of emotional “spikes” in creating unforgettable family moments.

How a tourism business is now contributing to cutting-edge carbon sequestration research, potentially reshaping how New Zealand values native forest restoration.

With over 9,000 TripAdvisor reviews and global accolades under their belt, Rotorua Canopy Tours proves that tourism can do more than entertain - it can restore ecosystems, build legacy, and create meaningful human connection.

This is a powerful conversation about leadership, culture, conservation, and the role tourism can play in shaping a better future.

___________________________________________________________

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

Paul Button - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-button-93241b187/ 

More about Rotorua Canopy Tours - https://www.canopytours.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 

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 event has evolved - and why its core purpose hasn’t changed. From handwritten appointment requests and queueing at buyer booths, to today’s slick digital scheduling, Michel reflects on what’s different, what still matters, and why TRENZ remains a long-term game.

This episode goes beyond nostalgia. Michel offers practical, grounded advice for accommodation providers and operators at every stage - from first-time exhibitors to seasoned sellers - covering ROI expectations, trade-readiness, presentation tips, and the importance of doing your homework before you walk into a 15-minute appointment.

It’s also a timely snapshot of what’s happening in international markets right now, how distribution has shifted with the rise of OTAs, and why relationships with inbound operators and agents remain critical.

If you’re heading to TRENZ, thinking about it for the future, or just want a reality-check from someone who’s truly seen it all - this is a must-listen.

__________________________________________________________________

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

Michel Adolphe - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michel-adolphe-70967225/ 

More about TRENZ - 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 

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 on-the-job training works, and why it’s designed to fit real workplaces without pulling staff off the floor. They explore practical training pathways, leadership development, and how structured learning can improve staff confidence, retention, and customer experience.

The conversation also touches on post-COVID workforce changes, new government direction, and how businesses of all sizes can access affordable, NZQA-recognised training with local, hands-on support.

If you’re a tourism or hospitality operator wondering how to build a stronger, more capable team in 2026, this episode is a great place to start.

__________________________________________________________________

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

Tony Laskey - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonylaskey/

Service IQ - https://www.serviceiq.org.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 

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

Behind the Scenes of Planning TRENZ

Real ROI for Operators

Quality Match Making

Why Post-Event Feedback Matters

Beyond TRENZ – The Role of TIA

Hope for the Future

Final Thought:

__________________________________________________

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/ 

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 

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 episode is packed with practical tips to help you build relationships, spark opportunity, and turn casual chats into long-term business.

Key takeaways include:

Why networking matters: TRENZ is more than just scheduled appointments. It’s about those unstructured moments – in the coffee line, on a famil, or even on the dance floor – that can spark lasting relationships and real business.

Overcoming the fear: Strategies to help introverts feel more confident, including ‘soft networking’ techniques, using extroverts to help with introductions, and remembering that everyone feels awkward sometimes.

Networking opportunities at TRENZ 2025: From the ECNI hosted welcome function to the iconic farewell event at Skyline Rotorua – there are plenty of chances to connect outside your appointment schedule.

Following up effectively: Lou shares her follow-up formula, from personalised emails with meeting photos to quarterly updates and using WhatsApp to stay top of mind.

Market-specific insights: Learn how networking styles differ across key international markets like India and the US – and how to adapt your approach.

Leveraging social media: From LinkedIn to Instagram and WhatsApp – Lou talks about how to use these platforms to keep conversations going and showcase your brand.

Trends for networking in trade: Hybrid events, AI matchmaking, and digital business cards are changing the game – but the fundamentals of relationship building remain the same.

Lou’s top tip? Go in with a plan, but stay flexible. Use your network to get introduced, and don’t underestimate the value of a spontaneous, genuine conversation.

___________________________________________

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

Lou Baddiley - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lou-baddiley-47317932/

Find Lou in Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/louthebeautyfoodie 

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 

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 across the new Trends Connect features – including a full list of missed appointment requests and mutual time slots to help you fill your calendar efficiently.

Rotorua’s Strength as Host City: Andrew shares what makes Rotorua the perfect destination to host TRENZ – from its walkability and innovation to its strong operator community and manaakitanga.

The Big Welcome: Delegates can expect a powerful pōhiri at the Sir Howard Morrison Centre, followed by a separate welcome function on Tuesday night.

Host City Famil Experiences: Over 20 operators are involved in this year’s host city famil programme, offering immersive, first-hand experiences of Rotorua’s top tourism products.

Product Updates & Surprises: Expect to see major investments, new experiences (some still under wraps), and upgraded attractions like Wai Ariki Spa and Skyline.

Sustainability in Action: Rotorua’s operators lead with humility and purpose – backed by over 25 years of the local sustainability charter. From geothermal heating at the venue to supply chain scrutiny, the region walks the talk.

Final Night Celebration: It’s not officially on the TRENZ programme – but it’s happening. The legendary farewell event is back at Skyline Rotorua, and expectations are high.

Andrew also reflects on the evolving nature of Rotorua’s tourism industry, including a shift toward premium experiences, new hotel developments, and the growing fusion of culture, eco-tourism and adventure.

__________________________________________________

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

Andrew Wilson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-wilson-88187217/ 

For more info on Rotorua - https://www.rotoruanz.com/ 

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 

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

Kylie Ruwhiu-Karawana - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-ruwhiu-karawana/ 

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 

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 PowrSuit. They discuss the challenges and opportunities for women in tourism, the gender leadership gap, and why now is the time to take action.

The conversation covers the launch of the Women in Tourism Career Accelerator, a groundbreaking initiative designed to equip women with the skills, networks, and confidence to step into leadership roles within the visitor economy. They explore the barriers that have historically held women back, the power of networking, and how small, actionable steps can lead to major change in the industry.

With real-world examples of businesses already leading the way, insights from experts, and practical advice for women looking to advance their careers, this episode is an essential listen for anyone passionate about diversity, leadership, and the future of tourism.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

The current gender leadership gap in tourism and why it needs to change.

How the Women in Tourism Career Accelerator is designed to support career progression.

Why networking is key to success and how to approach it in a way that feels natural.

The biggest barriers to women in leadership and how we can overcome them.

Success stories from tourism businesses leading the way in diversity.

How to take control of your personal brand and position yourself for leadership.

Guests:

Alex Dykman (Grow Tourism) – Founder of Maverick Digital & Grow Tourism, dedicated to building a stronger and more future-ready tourism industry by investing in its people.

Kristen Lunman, Co-founder, Powrsuit 

From a family of entrepreneurs, Kristen is attracted to challenging the status quo. Her startup journey in New Zealand started with Wipster, a video SaaS solution. Until 2021, she was the co-founder and CEO of Hatch, an investment app. More recently, she is one half of the dynamic duo behind Powrsuit, a career accelerator for women on the way up. When she does have spare time, it's spent with her family on the sidelines or on a surfboard.

Natalie Ferguson, Co-founder, Powrsuit

Nat caught the entrepreneurial bug at university, and at 19, embarked on her first venture. Twenty years on, she’s had multiple exits, a few painful failures, and everything in between. With a knack for tackling complex problems, Nat changed the wealth-building behaviour of nearly 200,000 customers through her last startup, Hatch. Now, she’s closing the gender leadership gap with Powrsuit, a career accelerator for women at every stage.

Resources & Links:

Women in Tourism Career Accelerator: Sign up for early bird pricing

Get more Powrsuit: Every week, on our newsletter and podcast, deep dive into one self-leadership skill or challenge, complete with a 30-second action.  Listen: https://open.spotify.com/show/2sC4y2gnTFmLRbSLHd7CLh and Sign up:  https://powrsuit.com/newsletters/ 

Grow Tourism: https://growtourism.com/ 

PowerSuit Newsletter: Connect with our guests:

Alex – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adykman/ 

Kristen – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-lunman/ 

Natalie – https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalieferguson/ 

Take Action: Kristen’s challenge for listeners: In your next meeting, say one thing! Whether it’s a question, comment, or idea—start making your voice heard. Small actions lead to big change.

Join the conversation and share your thoughts on social media using #WomenInTourism #PowerSuit #GrowTourism. Let’s work together to close the leadership gap in tourism!

🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast app. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it!

_____________________________________________________________

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! 

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 

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 face in leadership, including gender bias, imposter syndrome, and the importance of resilience and continuous learning.

We discuss how the industry can create more inclusive workplaces, the value of mentorship, and why diversity in leadership matters. Kerry offers practical advice for women aspiring to leadership, encouraging them to build strong skill sets, advocate for themselves, and challenge the status quo.

She also shares insights on personal brand, workplace culture, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. In closing, she reflects on the progress made for women in tourism and the work still needed to ensure equity at all levels.

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

Kerry Walker - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-walker-2a73ba18/ 

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 

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 strategy—this episode is for you! Michelle breaks down how to define your key markets, research buyers, and turn that knowledge into an effective pitch.

Plus, stick around for a special interview with Prasad from General Travel in India. He shares valuable insights into what Indian buyers are looking for at TRENZ and how to stand out when selling to this growing market.

Look at your past visitor data – Where are your customers coming from?

Analyse industry trends – Are there emerging opportunities?

Be specific about your ideal traveler – Luxury? Adventure? Family? Knowing this will help target the right buyers.

Use TRENZConnect to review attending buyers and their profiles.

Prioritise quality over quantity – Focus on those who align with your market.

Reach out in advance to secure meetings and maximise mutual appointment rankings.

Show buyers you understand their needs: “I saw that your company specialises in small group adventures; here’s how my product fits in.”

Make it easy for them: Highlight transport options, package opportunities, and exclusives.

Be solution-focussed: Address potential challenges buyers may have and provide clear answers.

Send personalised emails referencing your conversation.

Provide necessary collateral: images, rates, and booking details.

Make it easy for buyers to take the next step.

Michelle chats with Prasad from General Travel, who provides a deep dive into the Indian travel market, booking trends, and key insights for working with Indian buyers.

Highlights from the Conversation:

Indian travel trends: Increasing demand for unique experiences, self-drive itineraries, and adventure activities.

Peak booking seasons: Travel happens year-round, but peak times are Diwali, Christmas, and school holidays.

Key factors for success: Food options (particularly vegetarian choices), clear communication, and reliable customer service.

Working through inbound operators: Why Indian agents prefer working with ITOs and how it streamlines the process for New Zealand suppliers.

We have a special second episode this week to celebrate International Women’s Day! Tune in on Friday for an inspiring discussion on women in leadership in tourism. Plus, next week, we have a BIG announcement related to women in tourism—so make sure you’re subscribed and don’t miss it!

If you’re attending TRENZ 2025, now is the time to get strategic about your meetings. Make sure you define your markets, research the right buyers, and prepare a strong pitch.

Enjoyed this episode? Share it with someone who’s attending TRENZ this year!

Ka kite!

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

Prasad Bagade

Designation: Sales Manager India

Email: [email protected]

Contact no: +91 9870123481

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prasad-bagade-439525100

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15pFR6PMXs/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prasadbagade?igsh=aHRqc3htc3ozb2p5

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