Covering the complete travel distribution chain

www.travelinc.co.nz

SamoaAfricaNew CaledoniaDreamtime

Queenslandon show

February March 2014

Discover Australia’s newest designer hotel brand

Getting thereThere are direct flights to the Gold Coast each week, and many more with transfers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

Visit businesseVents.australia.com for eVerything you need to plan your australian eVent.

An incentive to Queensland’s stunning Gold Coast is a great way to keep employees motivated and inspired, with the destination offering so many options for incentive groups from India.

With 70 kilometres of surf beaches, high quality four and five-star resorts, fantastic food, and an abundance of native wildlife, the Gold Coast is one destination that never disappoints first-time visitors.

Experience everything this destination has to offer in an action packed three days.

Deliver the wow factorDay 1:Start the day with a buffet breakfast with the dolphins at Sea World. Enjoy exclusive use of Dolphin Cove, where the friendly resident creatures provide a spectacular display, and adventurous guests can swim with them for something truly memorable. After breakfast, transfer to Paradise Jetboating at Mariners Cove Marina to take on an adrenaline charged teambuilding adventure on the Gold Coast Broadwater. Experience full 360 degree spins, high speed drifting, incredible beach buzzing and other thrilling manoeuvres in as little as 10 centimetres of water. After an indulgent lunch at the hotel Palazzo Versace, head to Harbour Town Outlet Shopping Centre where there are 220 specialty stores for a VIP outlet shopping adventure, or ride in one of the world’s fastest elevators to SkyPoint Observation Deck at Q1 Resort & Spa in Surfers Paradise. Located 230

metres above sea level, SkyPoint Observation Deck offers unrivalled 360 degree views of the Gold Coast’s beaches and hinterland. The accompanying Skypoint Climb, Australia’s highest external building climb, will take you up to the building’s summit for breathtaking views of the Coast.

Hit the casino for an evening of fun, or dance the night away in the numerous nightclubs in and around Surfers Paradise.

Day 2:

Watch the waves of the Pacific Ocean roll in as you enjoy breakfast at a traditional Australian surf club such as the centrally located Northcliffe Surf Club. During breakfast you will be met by one or two famous Australian cricket players who will instruct your group in a game of beach cricket. A volleyball court and learn to surf lessons will also be available. From the beach, travel by Harley Davidson or sporty hot rod car (a vehicle that has been modified for extra speed) down the coast to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Nestled within 27 hectares of lush eucalypt and rainforest, groups can interact with native Australian animals including koalas and kangaroos. For lots of fun, Currumbin offers a challenging ropes and Segway riding track, popular for team-building.

A spectacular private island just a short boat ride from the mainland is your secret dinner venue this evening. McLaren’s Landing is located on South Stradbroke Island and offers total exclusivity for up to 1,000 guests.

A seafood smorgasbord is accompanies by fire dancers and live entertainment.

Day 3: Shake off any tiredness today with a ride in the V8 powered desert racing buggy at the Gold Coast Performance Driving Centre. The centre’s fleet is equipped with safety roll cages, racing seats, and slick racing tyres all designed to give delegates the opportunity to test their skills as a driver. For the less adventurous, delegates can choose an aerial adventure with Gold Coast Helitours. Fly north towards Moreton Bay and spend the afternoon at Tangalooma Island Resort - home to the famous wild dolphins of Moreton Bay – or explore the sub-tropical rainforest trails in the Gold Coast hinterland. The final night is a true blue Aussie experience with Australian Outback Spectacular. Delegates will enjoy a unique dinner and show experience filled with outback music, drama and action with over 40 stock horses and a three-course Australian BBQ dinner.

A great way to end a three-day Gold Coast experience in one of Australia’s most vibrant destinations.

Start planning nowFind more itineraries and pitching resources at businessevents.australia.com. Or contact Chris Ingram, Partnership Manager at Tourism Australia on cingram@tourism.australia.com or +64 9 915 2878 for more information.

WONDERFUL incentivesOn Queensland’s Gold Coast

TAU0010_T_GC_297x210_FA.indd 1 10/01/14 12:12 PM

Selling soft adventure 2Adventure World will focus on experiences and the four star market, says The Travel Corporation’s chief executive Brett Tollman.

Samoa 7Talofa – it’s time to ‘celebrate the Samoan way’ as the ‘treasured islands’ look forward to an exciting year.

Sell TNQ 14Cairns hotels have been part of a city-wide spruce up in readiness to welcome major events – including the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) and the G20 Finance Ministers.

Dreamtime 16Dreamtime’s format of showcasing innovation in events and activities, as well as including one on one business sessions and networking opportunities impressed both ‘old hands’ and newcomers alike.

Queensland 19Consistently pleasant weather, a host of major events and signs of the New Zealand dollar going further in Australia than ever before are helping to position Queensland as a year round holiday destination.

New Caledonia 24The addition of two high profile brands will give New Caledonia an added lease of life this year, with additional opportunities for the travel trade in New Zealand.

10 years in NZ 28Full service agency, cievents, is celebrating its 10th year in business in New Zealand.

Africa feature 29Generation game – with family travel on the rise, World Journeys has been quick to meet the challenge of keeping every generation happy.

Fiji famil 32With a new convention centre in the wings and a new exhibition, The Fiji Tourism Expo (FTE), Fiji wants to welcome more visitors to its friendly shores.

16

24

32

AT A GLANCE

ALSOEditorial 2News 2Paparazzo 4People 6Industry update 23New event 27

Dreamtime

New Caledonia

Fiji famil

Cover story: Taking Australia’s designer hotel world by storm, QT Hotels & Resorts now has a presence in the Gold Coast, Port Douglas, Sydney and Falls Creek (Victoria). There are also plans to spread the brand’s quirk and flair to Melbourne, Perth and Canberra. Full story starts page 12.Contact: Kobi FactoQT Gold Coast director of sales and marketingkobi_facto@qthotels.com.au+61 7 5584 1230

TrAvELInc is registered as a magazine and is published by ProMag Publishing Ltd. Level 1, 172 West Coast road, Glen Eden, PO Box 60154, Titirangi, Auckland. internet: www.travelinc.co.nz Phone: 09 818 7807. Fax: 09 818 7864. Publisher/Editor: Stu Freeman email: stu@promag.co.nz Advertising Manager: Cherie Final email: cherie@promag.co.nz Assistant Editor: ruth Scott email: ruth@promag.co.nz Journalist: Ashleigh Gilchrist email: ashleigh@promag.co.nz Administration Manager: Kate Wemyss Contributors: Kathy Ombler, Design & production: Gary Covich email: studio@promag.co.nz Printing: Image Centre Distribution: Western Mailing ISSN: 1176-936X

The material in this publication is subject to copyright. No part of the magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. No responsibility is accepted by ProMag Publishing for accuracy of information contained in the text, illustrations or advertisements. The opinions in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher.

With this issue:The 2014 TAANZ Book and the latest edition of Your Guide to Fiji – Welcome to the Happiest Place on Earth

EDITOrIAL / NEWS

Lots of hotels have been given awards by TripAdvisor in the past few weeks. Lots and lots and lots. I know, because I have been sent many dozens of press releases about the various successes – this resort being rated the third best in the Pacific, that one being designated as excellent, these ones making the top 10 in Ubreickastan, and this one being rated best waiter who stands on his head while delivering a fish meal in Mississippi.

Presumably the people sending me the releases really believe that lots of people are interested in their achievement, but I wonder if they think our readers really want to know about every single place in the world that gets a four star rating for its chicken lasagne?

And of course it is not just TripAdvisor that the traditional media is asked to publicise on behalf of various ‘winners’. As an editor, I am supposed to believe that it is interesting that a hotel in Northland was named fifth best provider to children under seven years of age by Kids First, the leading website for mothers and their associates

out of Chicago.Ok, I am getting silly now. But I will hear from at

least 15 ‘winners’ of awards well known, obscure and everything in between today alone. If I don’t it will be an unusual 24 hours.

It begs the question – are some of these awards, especially if they are ‘readers’ choice’ and subject to manipulation by encouraging votes, actually quite meaningless? And does their sheer proliferation risk making them all a complete waste of time?

Surely most of these awards only really matter to the people who win them, and have a positive spin-off for staff morale. That’s good, but it doesn’t mean the media will necessarily feel compelled to run the ‘news’ every time someone in accommodation or tourism wins something.

And how many consumers take these awards particularly seriously? Are people more likely to book a room because of location (especially a business person looking to be close to the CBD), its swimming pool, its price - or its latest award?

‘We’re excited to have Adventure World in our family of brands and to have a company with a global footprint in the soft adventure sector.’

He says the future of Adventure World is in focusing on the experiential side of adventure, rather than simply packaging airfares and hotels for FIT travellers.

‘That’s already a crowded space with some very good operators in it. We see opportunities in refining and developing a specific niche.

‘For example when people go to a place like South Africa we want to be able to arrange special experiences like learning about the history of tracking animals, or being at a camp

Stu FreemanEditor

Tripping up

Soft adventure has great growth potential in the four star market in the long term and that is the area Adventure World will be focusing on, says The Travel Corporation’s chief executive officer Brett Tollman.

Le Meridien Noumea’s comprehensive renovation

programme started late January.

We had a lot of ‘Flighties’ recognise their sister shop, Flight Centre Taupo, in the last issue of TrAvELinc, but there could only be one winner. Congratulations to Lesley McLeod of Flight Centre Tauranga, copies of Lonely Planet Western Europe, New England’s 32 Amazing road Trips and Blue List Australia are on their way.

The mystery continues this month though. If you know where the above shop is, send your name and the answer to competitions@promag.co.nz. remember to write Mystery Shop in the subject line. The lucky winner will enjoy another selection of Lonely Planet books. 

?Where’s this shop?

and learning the traditional way to start a fire. These are individual travel experiences.’

He says a look through existing Adventure World product in South Africa would show there are 10 programmes of three days and two nights.

‘There is not much soft adventure there.’He points to The Travel Corporation’s

Inspiring Journeys, which is high on experiential travel options.

The Travel Corporation’s other brands include Trafalgar, Contiki, Uniworld, AAT Kings and Insight.

Adventuring softly

Le Meridienrenovation

Brett Tollman

Over the next year, 150 guest rooms and suites will be completely renovated and a new spa will be built, set to open in February 2015.

The Fare beachside restaurant will be refurbished and expanded from June, opening September 30 and the reception, lobby bar and terrace will also be entirely renovated. The swimming pool will be retiled and restyled between July 15 and September 15. Further work, including the complete refurbishment of the Le Sextant restaurant will also be completed in 2015.

The hotel is open for business, with rooms located in A wing and C wing remaining available for sale during 2014.

(For more New Caledonia news see page 25)

2 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

Deals, dollar lead to travel ‘take off’By Iona Skyring

Europe and the USA, as well as more exotic countries in Asia, Africa and South America, are well and truly in the sights of Kiwi travellers as economic confidence grows in 2014, according to both retail and wholesale travel agents.

Get A Life!Why has Travel Brokering become very popular?

Because as a Broker you manage the direction of your business, work the hours to suit, and receive a top income!

“What I love about The Travel Brokers is the massive talent pool with huge experience within our broker team. And everyone I have ever asked for assistance, has been more than happy to help and genuinely wishing me success in my business. The support staff are simply incredible; they are very focused, committed, and always available.”

Andrew Welch, Nelson

A member of Just Tickets Ltd. Just Tickets Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of Stella Travel Services, 66 Wyndham Street, Auckland

Contact Wendy D’Arcy: (09) 307-1849 • 0274 778144 wdarcy@thetravelbrokers.co.nz • www.thetravelbrokers.co.nz

Winner NZTIA 2012 “Best Travel Broker Group”Finalist AFTA/NTIA 2013 “Best Travel Agency Retail Single Location”

NEWS

Caroline Clegg of World Journeys says that 2014 has taken off with a hiss and a roar. ‘We were very busy at the end of last year so it’s not entirely unexpected,’ says Clegg. Safaris in Kenya and Tanzania, as well as boating in the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador are among some of the activities looking hot in 2014, according to Clegg. 

Eric Cox from Cox World Travel says there has mainly been interest in Europe and UK so far this year, with a few bookings to the USA. ‘We found UK and Europe interest began in September - October with a number of people planning a year in advance,’ says Cox. 

He says he has also noticed New Zealanders are getting more adventurous as they tap into all the internet sites to find new places. ‘As they do that, they put them on the list to tick off.’

The New Zealand dollar and economy might be contributing to travel trends this year says rod vickers from World Travellers Titirangi Travel. However, a number of other factors are influencing the solid start to the year. ‘Attractive deals, job security, pent up desire for travel after years of recession, have all added to the situation,’ says vickers.

Even though the current financial situation allows some travellers to look further afield, vickers believes that short haul destinations will always be popular. This is especially for families who have limited time frames because shorter flights allow for more holiday time on the ground. 

Hawaii has stood out as a popular choice for a beach holiday that is a bit further afield than the standard destinations of Australia and Fiji, some agents say.

‘Hawaii is definitely still leading the charge for us in 2014, along with the increasingly popular Bali and Thailand beach destinations,’ says Joanne Bowley from Mission Bay Travel.  

Bowley agrees the high New Zealand dollar has impacted on the increase in booking activity for travel this year but says there are other factors contributing to the current activity. ‘Inspiring marketing campaigns out recently (think Contiki with the #Noregrets campaign) make it hard to resist the urge to throw your life in a backpack and go exploring,’ says Bowley. 

Carolyn Clegg… 2014 has taken off with a hiss and a roar

Eric Cox… UK and Europe interest

Joanne Bowley… inspiring marketing campaigns have contributed

Rod Vickers… there’s a pent up desire for travel after years of recession

Simon Drew from Harvey World Travel feels the busy start to the year is mainly to do with consumer confidence and how comfortable people feel about spending money on a holiday, rather than the high NZ dollar.

He says that Hawaii continues to be a popular destination this year, continuing the trends from 2013. Drew adds that more and more people are making quick and last minute decisions on long haul destinations. ‘People think they can get a bargain by leaving it to the last minute but I would say this is flawed thinking, because there is less availability,’ says Drew.

TrAvELinc february/march 2014 3

PAPArAZZO

Setting sail with SKAL

Well now we know – the mystery woman in the December issue of TrAvELinc was raumati Barbara, of Coconuts Travel Marketing. Congratulations to Mark Goodman of Cruise About who made the correct identification. A bottle of wine from the TrAvELinc cellars is on its way.

In this edition we have another mystery person, plus social shots from late last year and early 2014. Keep an eye out for cameras – we’ll be out and about at a function near you.

Are we seeing triplets? Yes, the boys took on the nautical theme for a day on the harbour. Ahoy there from Captain Adam Taylor-Eruera, Auckland Museum and first mates Shane Boocock, Let’s Travel Magazine and Simon Duffy, New Caledonia Tourism

Sunny Kaushal, Quadrant Hotel & Suites Auckland and Sam Cameron, Destination NSW

Wendy Stanton, Acrossia; Leanne Cheesman, United Airlines and Lauren Chappell, Carlson Wagonlit Travel

Flashback to 2013..The weather couldn’t have been better for SKAL members and guests as they cruised around the Auckland harbour for the annual SKAL Auckland Christmas party mid December.

Len Carpenter and Sue Sutherland, Harvey World Travel Mairangi Bay

Nancy Sadeli and Sidh Mahida, Flight Centre

Vaughan Edmonds and Petra Wood, Intrepid

Raumati revealed

Canada calls in

Alice Scott, Infinity; Julie Rice, Air Canada and Selene Donovan, Infinity

The World Journeys team:

Judith Wesley, Kim Houston

and Sue Barnaby

Auckland and Christchurch travel agents and product managers topped up their Canada knowledge at Canada Calls late January, with food writer and Canada fan Annabelle White MC-ing on-stage interviews and presentations with local and visiting representatives.The roadshow included representatives from Brewster Travel Canada, rocky Mountaineer, Calgary Stampede, Destination British Columbia, Tourism Sun Peaks, via rail Canada and local reps from World Journeys, Adventure World, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, APT and Scenic Tours.

Kate Moriarty and Karen Parker, Infinity

4 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

PAPArAZZO

We’re back to work, but let’s have a catch up anyway. That was the message from SKYCITY when it invited events related clients and guests to a function at SKYCITY Grand Hotel mid-January.

On the bridge

SKY’s the limit

Love Boat captain cap fits

Meredith Drucker, The Events Group Ltd; Adam Taylor, Auckland War Memorial Museum – Tamaki Paenga Hira;  Heather Shaw, The Events Group Ltd

Allyssa Eastaugh, ProMag Publishing; Gemma Strother, BECA; Nastassia Dykman, ProMag Publishing

Jono Park, Madant Productions; Jo Meredith, Nathan Harrison, SKYCITY (at time of going to press); Craig Muller, Madant Productions

Christmas function with a difference – Malaysia Airlines took a group of ‘top sellers’ on a surprise day late last year. The group took part in Auckland Bridge Climb and then had lunch at The riverhead with 7 Days surprise guest Dai Henwood appearing as a surprise guest.

Gearing up for the big climb: We recognise Paul Smith, First Travel Group on the left and Mike Southcombe, Travel Managers on the right. But who is the mystery man in the middle? If you know, then email his name to competitions@promag.co.nz

Stan Bennetto, sales manager Malaysia Airlines; Susan Rayfield, Flight Centre; Paula Watson, House of Travel and Tim Allen, House of Travel 

Stan Bennetto and Jennifer Denekamp, Malaysia Airlines with MC Dai Henwood

Anna Black and Chris Richards, both General Travel New Zealand with Lisa Harris, AOT

Richard Dodds, Rendezvous and Lee Watkins, Auckland Convention Bureau

Sharen Mackay and Caroline Mackay, Malaysia Airlines with Laura Noblejas, The Radio Network and Violet Gunn, China Travel Service

Captain Merrill Stubing’s Love Boat cap recently headed to Australia - all set for actor Gavin MacLeod’s imminent visit to Australia and New Zealand. Princess Cruises vice president for Australia and New Zealand Stuart Allison and public relations manager Meg Koffel took careful delivery of Captain Stubing’s hat ready for Gavin MacLeod’s touch-down in Sydney.

Hobbit rendezvousrendezvous Grand Hotel Auckland hosted corporate clients, travel managers and PCOs to one of the first Gold Class screenings of The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug late last year.

TrAvELinc february/march 2014 5

Matt Parnellis national sales leader for Flight Centre Corporate. He is responsible for developing strategic initiatives to attract new business and increasing profit and market share for the corporate business, including FCM Travel Solutions, Corporate Traveller, cievents and Stage and Screen. He has been in the travel industry for more than 10 years.

Josefa Tuamotohas been appointed to the new role of Solomon Island visitors Bureau chief executive officer. A former chief executive of Tourism Fiji, Tuamoto’s experience also includes a role as director of commercial operations with Blue Lagoon Cruises.

John O’Sullivan is managing director of Tourism Australia. He moves from Fox Sport, where he was chief operating officer. Previously he held executive positions with Events Queensland and Football Federation of Australia.

Dennis Wahis conference and events manager at ATS Pacific. It is a return to the company for Wah, who was previously wedding coordinator and then senior events manager at ATS. He has also held roles at InterContinental Fiji Golf resort & Spa.

Sang-weon Je (Steve)is Korea Tourism Organization’s (KTO’s) new director for Australia and New Zealand. He will be based in Sydney and has more than 20 years’ experience with KTO.

Ihaka PeriNew Zealander Ihaka Peri is the new executive chef at Likuliku Lagoon resort in the Mamanuca Islands, Fiji. Previous roles include working at The Grove restaurant in Auckland and at restaurant Balzac in Sydney.

Carmel Beattiehas been appointed as AOT’s Cook Islands representative, signalling the group’s first time presence in the nation. Beattie’s previous roles have included manager international at Tourism Queensland and group manager international at Tourism NSW. In 2010 she relocated to the Cook Islands where she spent a period as CEO of the Cook Island Tourism Corporation. Beattie will be based at the rarotonga International Airport and will be responsible for negotiating and contracting Cook Island products for Air New Zealand Holidays, AOT Inbound and ATS Pacific.

Nastassia Dykmanis event coordinator for the Pacific Area Incentives and Conference Expo (PAICE), being held on November 19 at SKYCITY Auckland Convention Centre. She will also work on other events in the ProMag Publishing portfolio, including Convene Queensland.

Aish Rangarajanis marketing manager of Tourism Malaysia New Zealand. She has had a variety of roles in the travel industry including senior travel consultant, services coordinator, contact centre supervisor and yield manager. Most recently she has been with an online tourism marketing company looking after supplier relationships in the New Zealand market and growing the business through marketing campaigns and online strategies.

HUMAN rESOUrCES

6 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

SAMOA

‘This year, we would like visitors to Celebrate the Samoan way,’ says Fasitau Ula, Samoa Tourism Authority. ‘We will put emphasis on ‘experience’, as we want people to participate and learn something about the destination while they’re here. It’s about experiencing the many cultural and environmental related activities on offer – from village tours and forest hikes to kayaking, plus the potential for new trail paths for bird watchers, an initiative the government and private sector partners are considering.

‘We’re also excited that travellers to Samoa can experience the new resorts opening, including return to Paradise resort, Saletoga Sands resort & Spa, and the entrance of the Sheraton brand after securing the management agreements for Aggie Grey’s Lagoon Beach resort and Aggie Grey’s Hotel & Bungalows.’

Starwood Hotels & resorts reports that following extensive renovations to achieve ‘Sheraton standards’, the properties will combine both strong trademarks and relaunch as the Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Hotel and the Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s resort respectively by approximately September 2014. The agreement signings mark Starwood’s debut into Samoa, with Sheraton the first international luxury hotel brand to enter the market.

Sheraton standards

Government officials have commented that the rebranding is a clear demonstration of foreign investor confidence in Samoa, and Fred

Grey, current owner and managing director of the Aggie Grey’s Group, believes having the global hotel brand will have a positive impact on the region’s development.

‘We are thrilled to announce these new signings with Starwood, a leading internationally recognised hotel company committed to providing excellent guest facilities, experiences and services across the globe. In partnership with Starwood, we will attract more visitors to Samoa by appealing to a wider audience with the iconic Sheraton brand.’

Aggie Grey’s Hotel & Bungalows was founded by Aggie Grey in 1933 and, steeped in cultural history, has come to be one of the most famous hotels in the South Pacific. Having closed in December 2012, the property will reopen

Aggie Grey’s Lagoon Beach Resort & Spa will relaunch with the Sheraton name,

and Sheraton standards, later this year

Celebrate the Samoan Way is the theme for

travel to Samoa in 2014 (photo courtesy of

David Kirkland)

Samoa is kicking off 2014 with its theme for the year – ‘Celebrate the Samoan way’ – as the ‘treasured islands of the South Pacific’ look forward to a year of new (and refreshed) resorts opening, an emphasis on authentic experiences for travellers, and the opportunity to host a major international conference on sustainable development.

Talofa – it’s time to celebrate By Ashleigh Gilchrist

TrAvELinc february/march 2014 7

SAMOA

with 198 guest rooms and suites, situated in a stunning waterfront location in the centre of Apia just 45 minutes from the airport. It will offer more than 17,000 square feet of meeting space for business travellers.

For sister property Aggie Grey’s Lagoon Beach resort & Spa, it is ‘business as usual’ throughout the transition period to Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s resort. When the rebranding is launched later this year, the property, which features 140 guest rooms, tennis courts, and nearby golf facilities, will also offer, along with the hotel, a signature restaurant and bar, full service casino, large outdoor resort style fantasy pool and pool bar. Both properties will feature Sheraton

Beach Road, Sogi, Apia, SamoaTelephone: 685 21122 Email: reservations@tanoatusitala.com

www.tanoatusitala.com

Ideal for leisure and corporate guests:• Located in the heart of Apia, featuring 90 deluxe rooms• Selection of restaurants and 24 hour room service• Swimming pools, tennis courts• Senikai Day Spa• 24 hour reception• Wireless internet access in all rooms

There was a reason they chose this location to shoot the epic movie ‘Return to Paradise’ in 1953. At Samoa’s most famous beach, you can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of a faraway place but with the modern comforts that epitomise 21stcentury living. Come and experience Samoa the way it was intended.The Return To Paradise Beach Resort and Spa.Opening March 2014

E: reservations@returntoparadiseresort.com P: 685 35055 W: www.returntoparadiseresort.com

Samoa’s Newest Luxury Resort

Fitness programmed by Core Performance and LINK @ Sheraton experienced with Microsoft. More benefits include Starwood’s strong guest loyalty programme which provides guests with incentives to spend more while they are in Samoa and to keep coming back, as well as a general lifting of Samoa’s hospitality services as Starwood’s hotel managers pass on their knowledge to the properties. 

Samoa Tourism Exchange

This year’s Samoa Tourism Exchange has the potential to be the biggest yet, given the interest

expressed by trade keen for a firsthand update on Samoa’s changing accommodation pool.

Ula says other Pacific destinations have been invited to the event and have expressed interest, but have yet to confirm.

The official opening will be held on April 1 at the Samoa Cultural Centre in Apia, followed by a buyer-seller exhibition from April 2 – 4. Given diverse interest amongst wholesalers, for the first time three themed property inspections will follow. ‘romance’ will explore properties and venues for the wedding and honeymoon market, ‘The Great Samoan road Trip’ will focus on the adventure market with beach fale options and backpacker and dorm style accommodation, while ‘Mainstream’ will look at a broader range of product and activities suitable for couples and families.

UN Conference

In September, Samoa will host the Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS), with more than 3000 participants expected. The focus will be on a group of countries (including many in the Pacific region) that, given their particular vulnerabilities such as isolation, climate change, and natural and environmental disasters, remain a special

Four-star, boutique Saletoga Sands Resort is set to open in April

8 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

SAMOA.A GREAT PLACE TO HANGOUT.Discover Samoa - The Treasured Islands of the South Pacific.

Samoa offers discerning travellers unique and unforgettable experiences.

Explore the true heart of Polynesia - ten peaceful islands of stunning wild beauty - a true paradise awaiting discovery!

From luxurious and secluded suites to traditional beach fales, Samoa offers a range of accommodation and experiences, along with a 3,000 year-old tradition of hospitality that’s as warm as it is timeless!

Fa’a Samoa. The Samoan way.

www.samoa.travel

The Treasured Islands of the South Pacific

EART

/STA

/740

6

SAMOA

Here you can relax around the lagoonside pool, dine at a choice of five restaurants, indulge in a therapeutic spa treatment or play a round of golf. There is also a great kids club and children under 12 years stay, play and eat free.

Escape to Samoa’s Coastal Paradise In a land where unspoiled customs, culture and courtesies still exist, we invite you to share our piece of coastal paradise for your next tropical escape. Aggie Grey’s Lagoon Beach Resort & Spa offers a whole new holiday experience in Samoa.

WWW.AGGIEGREYS.COM/RESORT

SUPP

LY 5

34

6IT

case for sustainable development. A sports stadium built by the government for

the 2008 South Pacific Games will be the venue for the SIDS conference and similar events of that scale going forth.

Saletoga Sands opening

The dream of two expat New Zealanders will become a reality on April 1, when Saletoga Sands resort officially opens its doors to visitors. Hamiltonians Lou and Gavin Brightwell had always wanted to own their own resort and upon discovering Samoa, they decided it was the perfect destination to achieve the goal.

The four-star, boutique resort is located on the southeast coast of Upolu and has 25 individual fales. It is represented in the New Zealand market by Coconuts Travel Marketing.

‘Lou and Gavin have travelled the world having been involved in hospitality and have come to be perfectionists in the industry, which is reflected in the styling of the resort. Every little detail at Saletoga Sands has been considered, down to the key you open your fale door with,’ says Coconuts director, raumati Barbara.

She says the resort is appealing to a wide market, from families to honeymooners and

wedding guests, with several weddings already booked for the resort’s own chapel.

The resort has an opening special for travel from April 1 to June 30 and sales made before March 31. The ‘stay seven, pay five’ offer includes two Saletoga tropical cocktails, two 30 minute massages, one day’s free car hire and a WST$100 food and beverage credit per room per stay. Daily continental breakfast and complimentary use of snorkelling and non-motorised water sports equipment is also concluded.

Tanoa Tusitala

Samoa’s established home for conferencing, Tanoa Tusitala Hotel in Apia is perfect for both corporate and leisure guests. Located on the waterfront in downtown Apia, the resort has been refurbished to four-and-a-half star international hotel standards, with 95 hotel rooms featuring a private balcony or self-contained patio area, air conditioning, in-room wifi and spacious modern bathrooms.

Facilities include two restaurants, a main pool and kids’ pool, a fully equipped conference centre for 200 people, and more recently a permanent marquee that has been erected for use during weddings, exhibitions and

themed parties.

Virgin Samoa

virgin Samoa operates six services per week from Auckland to Apia, every day except Wednesday, and offers an economy and premium economy product. ‘With the economy product, we offer a range of fares from seat and bag to fares including meals and the provision of a galaxy tablet to watch our inflight entertainment,’ says Mark Freeman, virgin Samoa sales manager New Zealand and Pacific Islands.

All passengers on either class can access the airline’s free inflight entertainment using their own portable devices such as iPads, tablets, or smartphones, by downloading the free application. ‘The free to use app must be downloaded prior to boarding a flight, so it’s something to remember before leaving home,’ says Freeman.

He says virgin Samoa is the result of virgin Australia and the Samoan Government’s joint venture, where both parties’ goal is to promote Samoa as a travel destination. ‘We are closely linked with the Samoan Government and the Samoan Tourism Organisation in our endeavours to grow travel to and from the country.

10 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

SAMOA

VIR1400

Your holiday starts the moment you

Virgin Samoa.

VIR1400_SamoaPress_275x380_FA.indd 1 30/10/13 4:06 PM

Virgin SamoaYour holiday starts the moment you step on board

To book, speak to your preferred Travel Agent or visit virginaustralia.com

S14176 TRAVELinc 2014 Samoa Feature.indd 1 3/02/14 1:39 PM

Five star promise for new resortFour-and-a-half-star accommodation with five star service is the promise of Return to Paradise Resort, set to open in April 2014.

The resort is located on the Western side of Upolu at Lefaga and sits on 1.5 kilometres of private beach made famous in the 1952 Hollywood film ‘return to Paradise’, starring Gary Cooper.

New Zealand representative ross McLauchlan of Oceania Tourism Group says prior to opening, the resort’s paramount focus has been on reaching top-level service for guests. ‘We are going full at it with training, training, training – we will get it to five star service, that’s a promise,’ says McLaughlan.

The property will open with 43 luxuriously appointed rooms comprising beachfront villas, fully equipped two and three-bedroom units (garden view or beachfront) and large treetop view units set back from the beach. Luxury presidential and honeymoon suites

with private spa pools are also available. All rooms are air-conditioned, with luxury bathrooms, Sky Tv, internet and wireless phones.

General manager Derek Webb says the resort brings much needed employment to the district, with staff from surrounding villages. ‘The advantage is that they know the culture of the areas and can pass that on to guests.’ He says the resort is well set up for the weddings market, able to host more than 300 wedding guests. ‘The property’s mixture of white sandy beaches, rugged lava outcrops and soothing palm trees make for some stunning wedding locations, especially at sunset.’

As well as two swimming pools, three bars, a restaurant and beauty spa, the resort is geared up for conferences, with two large meeting fales. One fale is closed in and air conditioned with

audio-visual equipment, while the other is open to warm breezes.

The resort is planning a soft opening the third week of March with invited dignitaries, supporters and business leaders attending a full opening ceremony in April. Price driven specials will be released to welcome guests and upgrades with add-ons will be offered.

Honeymoon Suite at Return to Paradise Resort

Beachfront luxury bathroom

TrAvELinc february/march 2014 11

COvEr STOrY

Putting the fun back in five star

Taking Australia’s designer hotel world by storm, QT Hotels & Resorts now has a presence in Gold Coast, Port Douglas, the flagship QT Sydney, and most recently Falls Creek (Victoria), with plans to spread the brand’s quirk and flair to Melbourne, Perth and very soon, Canberra.

‘We have been extremely pleased with the growth of our new QT brand,’ says David Seargeant, managing director of the hotel group’s Australian owners, Amalgamated Holdings Ltd (AHL).

‘There has been a great response to the experience QT offers and this has led to strong interest in both international and domestic growth of the brand in future. With this in mind, we are finding that QT properties, particularly QT Sydney, are seeing a corporate market that is open to the concept of designer hotels. All of our properties offer an experience that is more than just a room to sleep in – making being away from home that little bit more enjoyable, less mundane and ultimately making guests reinvigorated the next day for work.’

The Canberra Lakeside property is currently being redeveloped and will launch as QT Canberra in Autumn this year. The QT hotel group is in the final stages of design for a 188-room property in russell Street, Melbourne, expected to open in 2016, and is also planning a 200-room property in Perth. It has also been reported that the QT brand has Queenstown on its horizons, but there are no firm plans or commitments as yet.

Seargeant says each QT property adopts a unique personality and position depending on its location. ‘Their design, features and facilities

Bazaar Interactive Marketplace, a

favourite QT feature

A fun and funky flair sets QT apart from other designer hotel brands

12 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

COvEr STOrY

are a reflection of each town or city, ensuring integrated, locally focused service and ambience.’ He says there is no particular pattern as to QT’s expanding destinations, rather developing the brand in key tourism markets ‘when the opportunity is right’.

Quirk as you work

Nostalgic surfer-themed QT Gold Coast and nautical style QT Port Douglas both celebrate ‘an eclectic mix of design and art’, where clients in the brand’s MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) sector can expect imagination, quirk and savvy with their special event at either hotels.

‘Injecting colour and quirk into the MICE space, these properties promise all the facilities corporate clients expect and more, from chic designer finishes and unforgettable food and drink experiences to inspired venues for up to 750 guests,’ says Kobi Facto, director of sales and marketing.

She says QT Gold Coast is the largest MICE property within the QT Hotels and resorts group and rivals its competitors when looking for large flexible ballroom space, outdoor event options, and ‘out of the ordinary venue’ offerings.

Following a major A$50,000 renovation in November 2013, the Gold Coast property has transformed its external water feature into a beach themed event space suited to trendy corporate conferences. Combining a wooden decking, astro turf and bold designer furniture, the new Calypso Terrace offers delegates a place to relax and can cater up to 200 people for a cocktail style function.

Boasting three floors of meeting and event space including a grand ballroom with six metre high ceilings, more meeting rooms at QT Gold Coast are found on levels one and two, offering flexible break out space with refreshing ocean or tree top views.

Port Douglas

Sister resort QT Port Douglas is the newest property in Port Douglas and with its location 55 minutes from Cairns Airport it makes the perfect gateway to explore the Great Barrier reef.

The  vibrant designer  hotel has 170 accommodation rooms, including spacious one and two bedroom apartments with chic designer touches throughout. All guest rooms have been given a facelift with new QT dream beds, 42 inch flat screen LCD Tvs and hand sourced stylish fabrics and finishes.

Guests can enjoy  signature concepts such as Bazaar Interactive Marketplace, the QT open bar area and Moonlight Cinema, a custom cinematic

experience designed especially for guests, running from July to September.   

QT Port Douglas offers various conference and wedding options, from its boardroom to a large, pillarless conference room, catering for occasions from a one-on-one meeting to a 350 delegate conference.

Your plate is your passport

Both QT Gold Coast and Port Douglas feature Bazaar Interactive Marketplace, where ‘the plate is your passport, with no rules on which destinations to explore’. Bazaar recreates a traditional marketplace with a 21st century twist. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows allow diners to peer into a cool room full of premium meats, and other sights include wood fired pizza ovens, Asian wok stations, classic pot roasts and organic salads.

‘With a mosaic of dishes to choose from, many are made to order, whilst others are ready for you to peruse at your own pace,’ says Facto. ‘regardless of where you start or finish, every dish

is accompanied by a passionate chef, eager to explain the intricacies of their creations.’

Other famed QT restaurants and bars include Gold Coast’s Stingray Lounge, Fixx Café and Yamagen Teppanyaki restaurant. QT Gold Coast also offers delegates exclusive packages at the SpaQ day spa, a perfect onsite option for group activities with six treatment rooms, relaxation space, nail bar and Hammam inspired steam room.

Stay and Play – QT style

QT Hotels and resorts has a special Stay and Play offer for organisers of residential conferences. Organisers who book and hold their next residential event at either QT Gold Coast or QT Port Douglas by June 2014 will be ‘living it large’ with a luxurious weekend away at the Queensland QT Hotel of their choice. Organisers will enjoy two nights of designer accommodation, daily breakfast, one dinner for two at Bazaar Marketplace and $50 worth of bar or spaQ credit.

Poolside parties at QT Gold Coast

One bedroom villa, QT Port Douglas

TrAvELinc february/march 2014 13

Shangri-La, The Marina Cairns, plans to complete a refurbishment early this year, in time for ATE. With 16 meeting spaces, the 255-room waterfront hotel has one of the largest meeting spaces in Cairns.

The Hilton Cairns completed a refurbishment in 2011. The waterfront hotel features 262 guest rooms and a Grand Ballroom (280 square metres) and meeting rooms, all on ground level and opening out to lawns and waterfront sites.

A soft refurbishment is being completed in the 314-room Novotel Cairns Oasis resort, which is set on two hectares of tropical gardens and features a lagoon style pool with white sand beach; a point of difference for a downtown Cairns hotel. The Novotel is handily placed alongside the site of the proposed new A$35 million Cairns Aquarium, which is expected to open in 2016.

SELL TNQ

Cairns ‘spruce up’Cairns hotels have been part of a city-wide spruce up, in readiness to welcome major events – including the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) and the G20 Finance Ministers.

Investment continues further up the coast. Peppers Beach Club & Spa Palm Cove completed a $100,000 refurbishment of all conference facilities in October. Awarded Peppers ‘Property of the Year 2013’ the entire hotel, with 143 guest rooms and meeting space for up to 110 delegates, can be booked exclusively.

Meanwhile ‘little sister’ property, Peppers Beach Club in Port Douglas, focuses on more intimate, high incentive product. With one and two bedroom apartments (some with private balconies opening directly to the resort pool) and meeting space for 20 guests, Peppers Beach Club is the closest five star property to the Port Douglas shopping area.

New brands are also making their mark in Port Douglas. QT Port Douglas has revamped all public areas and food and beverage offerings since rebranding from rydges Sabaya in May last year. Bright colours and funky artwork feature and the new Spa Q, opened in April, adds a quirky, retro feel, along with the innovative product ‘Freshly Picked’. Spa guests book a time and only decide the treatment that best suits their needs after discussion with a spa therapist.

Pullman Sea Temple resort & Spa also rebranded last year to become one of the first Pullman resorts. Special features at this massive, beachside property are the 3000 square metre, lagoon-style pool and the guest villas and rooms. Each offers something different, be it a penthouse with rooftop apartment, private spa and barbecue, private pool or direct access into the lagoon pool. Meeting spaces are also expansive, both indoors and alfresco.

Luxury eco property, Thala Beach Lodge, has recently completed a full refurbishment of the restaurant, public areas and 15 ocean view bungalows. Thala’s 83 bungalows are scattered throughout 145 acres of private rainforest, with 1.6km of private beaches. The lodge, 15km south of Port Douglas, holds the highest Ecotourism Australia certification.

Incentive groups are discovering Lizard Island, which consistently rates one of the world’s top ten resorts and top diving spots, says director of sales, Janelle Wilson. (Most recently rated 9th Top International Hideaway 2013 by Andrew Harper readers’ Choice Awards.) With just 40 rooms and suites and accessed by private airstrip (one hour’s flight from Cairns) the resort can be hired exclusively. Spa treatments, guided walks in the 1000 hectare Lizard Island National Park, diving the world famous ‘Cod Hole’ or a fully catered lunch delivered to one of the resort’s 24 private, powdery white beaches are all options.

The Reef

Tropical North Queensland has probably the biggest variety of ‘reef product’ along the Great

Pacific International Cairns completed a five year, A$20 million refurbishment last August, says business development manager, Joanne Neill. ‘The 176-room property was the first international hotel in Cairns and one of the largest. The upgrade has introduced bright colours and art work and at the same time it has maintained all of its nostalgia and retro features.’ The hotel, which overlooks the Esplanade, is independently owned and operated by a local family.

Also completing a refurbishment last year is the Pullman reef Hotel Casino. The A$1.5 million upgrade of all 128 guest rooms included new smart televisions with connectivity panels, the only Cairns hotel to feature these. The rooms upgrade follow the refurbishment, 18 months ago, of the hotel’s extensive conference and function spaces.

By Kathy Ombler

The new look Grand Ballroom at Hilton Cairns

Australian award winning caterer, Port Douglas Catering, works at many venues including the Sugar Wharf, Port Douglas

14 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

SELL TNQ

Barrier reef, says rosie Douglas, director of Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier reef. ‘We have a large range of boats out of Cairns and Port Douglas, pontoons, islands and quays and most companies do charters for groups.’

reef fleets are also in expansion mode, with the Quicksilver Group purchasing the new Ocean Spirit sailing yacht (150 pax) and reef Spirit (170 pax). ‘These give us more flexibility for private group charters,’ says group media manager Megan Bell. ‘We have 40 reef sites we can visit, we also do dinner and cocktail cruises and themed beach dinners, working with Port Douglas Catering, plus we offer Green Island resort ‘Technical Tours’ for engineering-related groups interested in this eco resort’s acclaimed environmental management.’

reef Magic Tours added the new, 300-seater reef Magic 3 to its fleet in January, has a new ‘roving permit’ allowing access to numerous coral quays and has added dedicated whale watching cruises, watching migrating humpbacks, from July to August. As well, reef Magic’s pontoon can be chartered exclusively for up to 250 guests.

Sunlover reef Cruises, which has just completed a two year refurbishment of all vessels and pontoons, is getting ‘quite a bit of traction’ chartering C&I groups from Port Douglas to Cairns, says sales and marketing manager, Alex Blake. ‘The two hour cruise is a great way to end a conference or event. We’ve also introduced an exclusive morning option on our pontoon; we can do breakfast on board, spend three hours at the reef and be back just before 1pm.’

The Cultural Rainforest

The new Mossman Gorge Centre, a collaboration between the local Kuku Yalanji people and voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia, has quickly become a leading attraction. Since opening in mid-2013, nearly 6000 visitors have joined Kuku Yalanji guides on Ngadiku Dreamtime Walks, and 123,000 have passed through the centre, with its indigenous art gallery and river-side café, and taken its shuttles into Mossman Gorge and Daintree National Park. Director of sales, Philip Newman, says groups can be hosted on private guided walks (traditional smoking ceremony and bush tea included), share a kurrma (hangi-style indigenous dinner) and swim in the pristine Mossman river (no crocs here!). Eighty of the 88 staff are local indigenous people, graduates from the adjoining, nationally-accredited Mossman Gorge training and recruitment programme.

Meanwhile Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park is currently undergoing a $12 million redevelopment, due for completion next year and undertaken in stages so the park can operate throughout. Adding Torres Strait culture to the offering and bidding to house the first ever Australian Indigenous Museum is part of Tjapukai’s aim to become the hub for Australia’s cultural tourism. In the past 20 years, Tjabukai has entertained more than 20,000

corporate guests in the park’s cocktail and dining venues, and is a major pre or post or partner tourism component.

TNQ Incentives Tips

Port Douglas Catering & Events has won Queensland ‘Caterer of the Year 2013’ and was one of 15 national finalists in the Australian restaurant and Catering Awards 2013. The company caters for top off-site venues throughout TNQ, including exclusive degustation dinners in private luxury homes for small, high end incentives groups.

Skysafari Australia Heli-In-One Tours is the latest new premium product on the books of Port Douglas Incentives. It encompasses travel by luxury four-seat helicopter and playing nine holes of golf each on Paradise Palms, Sea Temple and the more relaxing Cooktown Golf Links, then calling in at a quirky country pub.

Play superhero in the Cairns Wildlife Dome; the Cairns ZOOm, a 13 metre ‘power jump’ within the roof-top wildlife park is the latest team building buzz, just introduced by the CaPTA Group. Or you could simply zip line through the tree tops above a four metre salt crocodile; top Queensland sports teams challenge themselves on this one. Exclusive breakfasts and two hour breakout options are available.

Like being in a glass-bottom boat but looking into the tree tops; 11 new glass-floor gondolas have been added to the Skyrail rainforest Cableway. The new ‘Diamond view’ class will also offer dedicated boarding queues. And coming soon is the ultimate Skyrail experience; absolutely open-aired gondolas, with passengers harnessed aboard and escorted by a Skyrail ranger interpreting the views. A sustainability seminar, tree planting and guided indigenous tours in private Djabugay rainforest are available for incentives groups.

Kuku Yanji guide and artist, Cameron Buchanan, on a Ngadiku Dreamtime

Walk from Mossman Gorge Centre

TrAvELinc february/march 2014 15

DrEAMTIME

Dreamtime’s format of showcasing innovation in events and activities, as well as including one on one business sessions and networking opportunities impressed both ‘old hands’ and newcomers in December last year.

Format a dream forKiwi delegates

Dreamtime delegates on a sunrise excursion with Uluru Camel Tours (Photo: Lisa Hatzimihail Photography)

Dreamtime 2013 took New Zealand incentive operators to Uluru in the Northern Territory after being with worldwide delegates for a programme in Melbourne. repeat visitors say that previous Dreamtime experiences had encouraged them to come back for the latest edition.

‘I found 2011 really beneficial and that made me want to come back,’ says victoria Wales of HOT Events. ‘I think the business sessions were actually a huge improvement this time, because we could really spend time one on one with the sellers. The room set up was nice and compact, the theming worked well and the food was amazing.’

Wales says this year’s venue, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, set a benchmark for facilities of that sort when it comes to catering. ‘Obviously they are always in the picture for larger events but it makes me think about using the smaller rooms for some of our clients rather than a standard hotel room all the time.’

Liz Maxwell, of ESP ventures, agrees that the business sessions were a step up. ‘I liked the touches like the two lanes down the middle of the venue and tram bells to indicate the end and beginning of sessions worked well. The concept mirrored a Melbourne Street and it was also cost effective for the visitors because of the way it was set up.’

Laurie Matthews, of Indigo, was a first timer at Dreamtime but she has quickly become a convert. She says the business sessions followed

Breakfast at Captain Baxter, St Kilda Melbourne… Liz Maxwell, ESP Ventures; Sharron Mihailoff, Williment Event Management; Victoria Wales, HOT Events

16 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

by an informal networking function helped her both make and renew contacts.

‘I liked the welcome cocktails at Alto. I think a lot of companies are moving to those more informal nights with a casual flow, because they offer more networking opportunities. It certainly gave me an opportunity to meet with people I didn’t see during the day.’

Jenny Walsh, cievents, says she attended Dreamtime for general knowledge. Another first time visitor to the event, she was keen to update herself on the offerings in the red Centre. ‘The person in our office who had a lot of knowledge

about Uluru has left, so it was important for someone to learn more about the destination.’

For Walsh, a highlight in the Northern Territory was a helicopter ride around the Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park. ‘It was amazing to see just how vast it was, and I was impressed with Kata Tjuta’ (Kata Tjuta is also known by its English name The Olgas.)

Airline sponsor

Dreamtime 2013’s major sponsor was virgin

Australia and the New Zealand delegates were impressed with how the carrier levereged the opportunity. The Kiwis flew to Melbourne on premium economy, and on domestic flights were pre-checked and had their bags handled for them. The airline also had a high profile during the entire event, with chef Luke Mangan making an appearance at the gala dinner in Melbourne (at the regent Theatre) and the food served there being from vA’s business class menu.

The airline also had crew members meeting delegates at various points along the journey – including on arrival at Ayers rock Airport and to wave people off on their scenic flights.

‘virgin set a standard as far as being an airline sponsor goes,’ says Maxwell. ‘I was impressed with their whole branding and with their staff meeting us just about everywhere, as well as the seamless check-in. It shows what airlines can do if they really put their mind to partnering with event planners. It makes it easier and it adds to the experience of the traveller.’

Walsh agrees. ‘I have not sold virgin before, but I would now that I have experienced them.’

Victoria showcase

Delegates felt that Melbourne was showcased well during the first half of Dreamtime and some Kiwis took the opportunity to explore victoria a little further. George Spence, of realize, was one who went on a ‘city to surf’ familiarisation.

‘To get that aerial view and see how massively

Local representatives at lunch in Desert Gardens Hotel… Sharna Wright, AAT Kings; Claire Risby, Ayers Rock Scenic Flights; Claudia Renner, Tourism NT (Northern Territory); Morgan Barry, Ayers Rock Helicopters

DrEAMTIME

Local Ananu guide Sammy Wilson explains some of the rock drawing at Uluru to Dreamtime delegates (Photo: Lisa Hatzimihail Photography)

TrAvELinc february/march 2014 17

Members of the September 2013 intake at the National Indigenous Training Academy… Darryl Hayes (training for a food and beverage

role), Elizabeth Fisher (food and beverage), Alicia Lonsdale (retail),

Alfred Eapau (painter), Ruth Johnson (administration).

obtained key supervisory roles on the resort at Uluru.

NITA was showcased to New Zealand and United Kingdom delegates at the recent Dreamtime incentive event, which included business sessions at The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and then an educational trip to Uluru.

Moulton says that while NITA’s success has been quickly noticeable there is still a fair way to go in terms of placement. ‘By 2018 we want half the workforce of about 900 people here to be indigenous. You can’t achieve that simply through direct recruitment, you have to back that recruitment up.’

She says anyone who successfully completes the course (level two tourism and hospitality) will get a job in the industry. While most of the trainees, certainly to date, have been placed in Indigenous Land Corporation properties there are opportunities with Accor (Ayers rock resort is a franchised Pullman) and beyond.

Shaun Pearce, general manager Yulara community and indigenous engagement, says that four successful trainees have already gone to work in the wider Accor network.

‘This is creating an indigenous workforce for Australian tourism and hospitality, but it’s also about sharing the culture,’ says Pearce.

‘Our (non-indigenous staff) are going through an awareness and when they go to other cities they can talk about their experiences here. We have always had involvement in this area but since ILC took over there has been much more of a focus.’

Not only that, but she has got one of the top executives of one of the Northern Territory’s most iconic properties in her sights as well – she’d like someone else to be doing the job of Manfred Pieper, executive general manager operations at voyages Ayers rock resort.

Moulton is the general manager of the National Indigenous Training Academy (NITA) – set up in 2011 by the resort owner the Indigenous Land Corporation. At that time, two indigenous Australians worked at Ayers rock resort (a short drive from the academy), now over 200 do.

But Moulton says it is not good enough to turn out people stuck in lower level employment.

‘We want it to become the norm, not the exception, to have indigenous people significantly placed in senior management positions in the tourism and hospitality sector.

‘I am here to find a replacement for myself – and for Manfred. When we have done our job, we won’t be relevant anymore.’

She says four trainees have already

It may not seem smart to have doing yourself out of a job as a leading objective. However, for Marea Moulton that is one of her main ambitions.

Future proofing and culture sharing

DrEAMTIME

cosmopolitan Melbourne is, and then going out to a vineyard for some exceptional wine was amazing. It helped give me an overall view of victoria as well and made it all seem very accessible.’

Other delegates stayed closer to home, splitting into groups of about a dozen after breakfast (at Captain Baxter on St Kilda beach) and then joining up again for lunch at Central Pier, managed by The Atlantic Group. Experiences included a millinery (hat making) workshop and the participants had the added bonus of being able to hold the Melbourne Cup – one of the world’s most famous racing trophies. (HOT Events’ victoria Wales puts that down as the highlight of her time in Melbourne.)

Others took part in the Birrarung Marr walk, for an Aboriginal insight into the history of Melbourne, while the morning also included a coffee culture workshop and a chance to practise batting and bowling skills at the Melbourne Cricket Ground with Aussie legend Merv Hughes.

Uluru programme

After Melbourne, New Zealand and United Kingdom delegates headed to Uluru and stayed at Sails in the Desert, one of the accommodation choices at voyages Ayers rock resort. As well as the scenic flight, delegates viewed a performance by Mani Mani Theatre Company (a mix of live theatre and impressive holograms and other technology). Then it was on to lunch at voyages Desert Gardens Hotel and a visit to the National Indigenous Training Academy (see box story). For a number of the Kiwis, the latter was a highlight.

‘I was so inspired by the school and how they are really working for the indigenous community, it was a humbling experience,’ says Wales. ‘I am passionate about hospitality education and that (academy) brought a tear to my eyes.’

David Hughes, of Incentives and Conventions International, says he also was impressed by the academy. ‘I enjoyed talking to the youngsters – I spoke to five or six of them.’

George Spence was impressed by the Northern Territory programme in general. ‘Uluru was stunning. It has a really spiritual feeling and to walk around it was a real highlight for me. I thought the accommodation was in keeping with the area – all the planting was desert planting and in character.’

Liz Maxwell felt that AAT Kings and other operatrs in the Northern Territory demonstrated their capabilities well. ‘The Northern Territory comes as a package and all the operators were committed to making us feel welcome.’

18 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

With 300 sunny days a year and a year round temperate climate, it’s no wonder Queenslanders are so happy,’ says Tourism and Events Queensland’s New Zealand representative Sally Holyer.

‘Queensland is truly where Australia shines, from family fun on the Gold Coast where great beaches, theme parks and outdoor adventures await, to the laid-back lifestyle and freshwater rivers, lake and subtropical forests of Sunshine Coast.’

Outback focus

Perhaps a less familiar part of Queensland is the Outback, encompassing the vast interior of the state and covering an area the size of

several small European countries. It’s a big place with equally staggering terrain, including gulf country, wetlands and waterholes, lush savannah, lunar landscapes, red desert sand dunes and huge cattle stations.

The Outback Queensland region is amongst the 55 operators who took part in the recent Queensland on Tour roadshow, with Outback Queensland Tourism Association being joined by Outback Aussie Tours, Kinnon & Co, and regional airline Skytrans.

Find your shine in Queensland

QUEENSLAND

Outback Aussie Tours provides escorted, accommodated Australian Outback tours and flexible short packages from Longreach, Cairns and Brisbane to favourite Outback destinations including Longreach and Winton, Birdsville, Corner Country and Gulf Savannah. Specialties include tours for incentives, events and special interest groups such as photography and gardening. ‘Our close working relationship with Outback communities means our passengers benefit from specially negotiated group entry

Consistently pleasant weather, a host of major events and signs of the New Zealand dollar going further in Australia than ever before are helping to position Queensland as a year round holiday destination and more than just a place to escape the Kiwi winter.

Gold Coast, one of the many parts of Queensland with high sunshine hours

Kinnon & Co in Queensland’s Outback offers pioneer rides in

a Cobb & Co style stage coach

TrAvELinc february/march 2014 19

QUEENSLAND

‘Step out of this world and into ours’ – that’s the promise of Village Roadshow Theme Parks (VRTP) and its six venues that are available for conference groups and special events.

vTrP is the umbrella company of Australia’s Warner Bros. Movie World, Wet ’n’ Wild Water World, Australian Outback Spectacular, Paradise Country Aussie Farm Tour, Sea World and Sea World resort & Water Park, with the latter in the midst of developing a 1000 pax conference centre expected to open in mid 2015.

Sea World resort & Water Park general manager Bikash randhawa says it will be a ‘game-changer’ for the business and convention market on the Gold Coast. ‘We have been offering exceptional mid-size conferences for many years and this new centre will allow us to do business on a much larger scale, reinforcing our position as one of the conference leaders on the Gold Coast,’ says randhawa.

The 750 square metre convention centre will be dividable into three sections and will complement the six existing venues at Sea World resort.

The four-and-a-half star resort offers 402 rooms and suites allowing delegates to stay onsite and enjoy two restaurants featuring

contemporary buffet and Japanese cuisine.Entertainment options at Sea World itself

include cocktails with polar bears or sharks, dinner with the dolphins, a show with the Nickelodeon Gang and a host of exciting rides and attractions.

The thrill continues at Warner Bros. Movie World – where Hollywood comes to life as movie legends perform classic hits under the 1500pax Star Pavilion on Main Street.

On to the Outback

Spirit of the Horse is the ‘big, bold and breathtaking’ evening dinner show at Australian Outback Spectacular. Hosted by rM Williams, the show’s arena can cater for 1000 guests who can enjoy a three-course Aussie style barbecue dinner while lapping up the sights and sounds of Australian stock horses, plus the chance to meet real stockmen and women on horseback. The new Winner’s Circle Members Lounge offers

premium seating for up to 12 guests. Keeping with the Outback theme, Paradise

Country Aussie Farm Tour takes city slickers into the adventure of true Aussie farm life, enjoying authentic country meals, bush entertainment and line dancing.

‘All of our venues are versatile and unmatched on the Gold Coast,’ says conferencing and events sales manager, Caroline Duveau-Clayton . ‘Our diverse portfolio offers great scope for creating extra special events with an extraordinary touch, and can be suited to every occasion and budget.’

Step into another world

Dine with the dolphins at Sea World

deals, exclusive dinners and experiences,’ says owner Alan Smith.

Kinnon & Co is a modern day icon of the Outback with its olden day theme set around the history and era of Cobb & Co. Its pioneering orientated products include galloping along the outback dirt track in a fully-laden Cobb & Co stage coach on the original mail route between Longreach and Windorah. Its Thomson river Cruises take guests on a historic Thomson Belle paddlewheeler or Thomson Princess riverboat, where at the completion of the cruise, they can enjoy bush poetry and dinner around a campfire before being immersed in the spirit of Harry redford in the new Starlight’s Spectacular sound and light show.

Foodie festivities in Noosa

It is one of the biggest days on Sunshine Coast’s calendar and tickets and packages are on sale now – the Noosa International Food and Wine Festival is happening from May 15-18 and more than 250 international chefs, producers, winemakers and entertainers will descend on Noosa to join foodies from all over the world.

Festival organisers say this year’s event will strip away some of the formality and become ‘one big party’. It will host some of Australia and the world’s best chefs including Franck-Elie Laloum from Shanghai, Alvin Leung of Hong Kong, London’s Bruno Loubet as well as more than 80 of Australia’s best winemakers and wine authorities coming together to host a huge series of Masterclasses.

Highlights of the festival include Foodie Fandango Opening Concert featuring ‘musical chefs’ and the Queensland virtuosi Orchestra, a fun sixties beach party on Noosa Main Beach, and Australia’s Best Home Cooked Dish, the new competition with a grand final of more than $23,000 in prizes including a trip for two to London.

The entertainment line-up will have a broad range of music including classical, pop, opera and rock, and performances from X-Factor winner Dami Im, vocalist Paulini and Thomas Crane’s Bohemian rhapsody. The weekend will

culminate with a sunset concert performance by Maria venuti at Noosa National Park’s Lookout and an eight-course Italian feast at berardo’s restaurant & bar.

Sunshine Coast Destination has released a range of Stay & Play packages, which offer a range of accommodation options from beachside resorts to luxury Hinterland retreats, all within easy access to Noosa. Each package includes a 15% discount on general admission and gold pass tickets as well as specific added extras from each hotel.

Noosa International Food & Wine Festival

(May 15-18) is the highlight of Sunshine

Coast’s calendar

20 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

GOLD COAST’S NEWEST CONFERENCE CENTREWith a world class conference centre opening in 2015 catering up to 1000 delegates and easy access to Australia’s most exciting theme parks, Sea World Resort will become your gateway to unique day and night conferences and events on the Gold Coast.

To discuss your next conference or event call +61 7 5591 0020 or email ConferencesAndEvents@vrtp.com.au

1401085 AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK SPECTACULAR © 2014 Village Roadshow Theme Parks. SEA WORLD © 2014 & TM Sea World Property Trust. SUPERMAN and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © DC Comics. WARNER BROS. MOVIE WORLD and logo and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s14)

DISCOVER A WORLD OF DIFFERENCELet us take you on a wonderful journey of discovery with our stunning range of events. From dinner with the Dolphins at Sea World to a glamorous Hollywood cocktail party at Warner Bros. Movie World, we can tailor your next event to be something magical.

SeaWorldResort.com.au/conferences-and-events.

g p ,

QUEENSLAND

TIR_MeetingNewzNZ_QpgHR.pdf 1 29/01/14 11:31 AM

Fire & Stone restaurant opened in January (replacing the Beach House rotunda restaurant) and offers traditional spicy Sichuan-inspired dishes, or for those not quite into the spice it also caters to more traditional Western style Chinese cuisine.

All of Tangalooma’s dining outlets optimise their locations and seating layouts to offer absolute beachfront dining, including the completely renovated and relocated Tursiops Buffet restaurant and the Beach Café which have refreshing new menus.

The edible enhancements extend further

The last six months has seen Tangalooma Island Resort reinvigorate its culinary offerings from humble fish and chips fare to waterfront dining with the vistas of Moreton Bay.

than family feasts and romantic reservations with the introduction of the waterfront pavilion, due to open in April and promoted as an ideal venue for business events.

‘Situated right on the beach, this private slice of absolute ocean frontage will cater specifically to conferences, events and wedding receptions,’ says robyne Wilson, business development manager - MICE. ‘The elegant and stylishly classy white marquee-style structure boasts four metre ceilings, a PA system and stage and dance floor

Fiery fare at Tangalooma

options perfect for that late night boogy.’At 30 metres in length and 15 metres

wide, the air-conditioned pavilion can seat up to 250 guests indoors. An outside private garden gazebo is an alternative option, able to host up to 100 guests for cocktails and canapés.

Tangalooma Island Resort’s new waterfront pavilion (opening

April) offers waterfront views of Moreton Bay

Key suppliers to the meetings, incentives, conferences and functions sectors are signing up to exhibit at Convene Queensland 2014.

Convene Q takes shape

Known as Convene Q, the exhibition is being held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC) on July 29. Confirmed exhibitors include QT Hotels and resorts, rACv Queensland resorts, Daydream Island resort and Spa, Hamilton Island, Tangalooma Island resort, Sea World resort & Water Park and more.

Stu Freeman, director of Convene Q organising company ProMag Publishing, says the event will bring Queensland suppliers under one roof, making it easy for planners and organisers to source products and services for their next event in the state.

‘Convene Q will include a number of educational and fun elements, to be announced over the next few weeks,’ he says.

Convene Q is a one day expo allowing professionals who organise events, from the company Christmas party, through to board meetings and large conferences, to source a diverse range of Queensland event products and services.

The event is also attracting interest from association executives, and is being supported by the Professional Conference Organisers (PCOs) Association. Local buyers form Brisbane will be joined by hosted buyers from other parts of Australia, as well as from New Zealand.

Buyer registration will go live early March 2014. www.convenequeensland.com

22 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

w: www.railplus.co.nze: info@railplus.co.nz ph: 09 377 5415

Travelling by rail is effi cient, quick, stress-free, affordable and safe.So sit back, relax and take in the fantastic scenery Europe has to offer.

Most rail passes allow travel days to be utilised over a two month period, giving you the ultimate fl exibility to

travel when YOU want to.

You choose your countries and let Rail Plustailor the perfect rail pass for your journey.

Did you know that travelling by train from Paris to London takes just 2hrs 15mins

compared with over 4 hours to fl y.

Going to Switzerland?Paris to Geneva in just 3hrs 20mins compared with almost 4 hours to fl y.

THINK RAIL!Travelling through Europe?

Earlybird Sale on now!

INDUSTrY UPDATE

Tuva kindergarten children were among those to have a fresh new look to welcome

them back to school for 2014

The report highlights the phenomenal growth of Australian cruising – 130% over the last five years, which ranks the country second in the world’s top five cruise markets in terms of passenger growth.

‘Such phenomenal growth in this market has given Australian and New Zealand travellers access to exceptional choice in terms of cruise lines, ships, itineraries and onboard features,’ says Ann Sherry, CEO of Carnival Australia, which accounts for around 80% of Australia’s cruise market, operating seven cruise brands including P&O Cruises Australia, Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Lines.

‘Cruising here has something to offer every market segment, with locally or seasonally based ships plus international ships visiting during the height of the summer cruise season.’

At 130.3%, Australia sits second in the top five markets for cruise passenger growth, only behind Scandinavia/Finland at (184.6%) and ahead of Brazil (84.8%), Germany (80.5%) and France (67.7%).

CLIA’s statistics also confirm that cruising continues to grow worldwide with passenger numbers for 2013 estimated at 21.3 million and forecast to increase to 21.7 million this year. The association’s member cruise lines are planning to introduce 24 new ships in 2014-15, increasing total passenger capacity to more than 37,500.

Each kindergarten chose a different theme to decorate their walls. Tuva Primary School chose a mural theme of numbers, letters, words and visual games while rahmatullah Khan Memorial School chose to have their playroom painted as an ‘Underwater Wonderland’.

Malomalo Primary School chose a ‘Jungle Safari’ theme for its mural. ‘It was important that the mural featured not only animals native to the Fiji Islands, but wildlife of the world, as we

New Zealand cruise passengers can reap the benefits of Australia’s huge boost in cruising figures, recently released in the latest ‘State of the Cruise’ report by CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association).

Three Natadola Bay (Fiji) community schools – Rahmatullah Khan Memorial School, Tuva Primary School and Malomalo Primary School, welcomed the 2014 school year with newly painted kindergartens, feature walls and new floor mats as part of the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa’s Community Care fund project.

Community Care givesthree schools new look

want to encourage the children to explore the world around them,’ says Master Naivalu, head teacher of Malomalo Primary School.

Local artist and talent behind the murals, Timoci Sokoiwasa was able to turn vision into reality, completing all three themed murals in only two weeks.

Moved by the children on a recent visit to Malomalo Primary School, a guest of the resort has also donated a brand new pair of shoes to each child to begin the school year.

General manager of the InterContinental Fiji Golf resort & Spa, Scott Williams says the resort is looking forward to continuing its work with schools in the Natadola Bay community in the New Year.

‘The Malomalo School Tour is one of the ‘In The Know’ experiences we offer here at the resort and we’re thrilled to see our resort guests actively engaging with our projects to help create a brighter future for these communities.’

www.travelinc.co.nz

Cruising to benefits

TrAvELinc february/march 2014 23

New opportunities

Simon Duffy, general manager at New Caledonia Tourism in New Zealand, says the launch of the Hilton Noumea La Promenade residences at Anse vata has already been met with positive feedback.

‘The opening of Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa and Golf resort later this year will take our profile even further and it will also give us a real entry into the family market.’

Duffy says the new Sheraton will have a kids’ club, as well as full spa facilities and a golf course.

‘It is set on 8000 hectares, it’s the size of the North Shore. People can go cycling for days on the property, go hiking or enjoy water sports such as jet skiing and sailing.’

Duffy says the other big news on the hotel front is a partial closure and refurbishment of the Le Meridien Noumea which is taking place early this year.

All of the developments make the destination ripe for the conference, meetings and incentives markets and Tourism New Caledonia will be taking a group of professional conference organisers on a familiarisation tour late March. Several hotels will be involved (including l‘Escapade Island and The Hilton) as well as destination management companies New Cal Events and Arc en Ciel. The group will fly with Aircalin, experiencing both the A330 and A320.

‘We’ll be seeing some of the more unusual sides of New Caledonia, and there will be

The addition of two high profile hotel brands will give New Caledonia an added lease of life this year, with additional opportunities for the travel trade in New Zealand.

Enjoying the view from Amadee Lighthouse,

New Caledonia

NEW CALEDONIA

Dining with a difference at Anse Vata

24 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

Contact us for a copy of our 2014 Conference Planner. Call 09 307 5257 or email info-akl@nctps.com

TRAVELINC/FebMar2013

New Caledonia

Tell your conference clients that in New Caledonia they can be indulging in the best that France has to offer - the fine cuisine, the best of wines, the designer shopping, the history, the language and the people - and all warmed by the tropical Melanesian sunshine and the welcoming warmth of the local people. New Caledonia offers the seasoned traveller a mix of experiences that they won’t find anywhere else in the South Pacific nor anywhere else so close to home - as it’s all less than 3 hours from Auckland!

For more information contact your Professional Conference Organiser or call the Auckland New Caledonia Tourism office on 09 307 5257.

Give your clients a taste of France..

www.newcaledonia-tv.comwww.visitnewcaledonia.com

ell your conference clients that in New Caledonia they can be indulging in the best ell your conference clients that in New Caledonia they can be indulging in the best ell your conference clients that in New Caledonia they can be indulging in the best ell your conference clients that in New Caledonia they can be indulging in the best ell your conference clients that in New Caledonia they can be indulging in the best ell your conference clients that in New Caledonia they can be indulging in the best ell your conference clients that in New Caledonia they can be indulging in the best ell your conference clients that in New Caledonia they can be indulging in the best

..less than 3 hours away!

a taste of France.. a taste of France..

a few surprises.’

Tactical approach

Duffy says New Caledonia will again be taking a tactical approach to the overall market, working with wholesalers. There will also be on-line promotional activity, such as social media, the use of blogs and a general ‘stepping up’ of destination branding on-line.

Self-famils for the industry will operate throughout the year, while there will be journalist and product manager famils around the opening of the Sheraton.

‘At the same time we will continue to look at niche markets. Golf has a lot of potential, with both the new Sheraton course and La Tina Golf Course, which is a great links course.’

He says shooting is another niche market that attracts New Zealanders, with Belle Safaris operating guided hunting tours. ‘There is good hunting of rusa Deer and Java Deer.’

Diving in the north or around Isle de Pines, or even just off Noumea, is popular, while sailing and fishing are other obvious targets out of New Zealand.

‘The north is probably best for fishing, both for the clarity of the water and the availability of fish, but there are various options.’

Aircalin

Aircalin has made selling New Caledonia as a holiday destination (or air only destination) easier with its new, lower, year round economy class airfare to Noumea.

Angela Hallett, sales manager New Zealand for Aircalin, points out that this new round trip fare trip - booked in W Class – is only $750 (including current fuel levy and taxes) ex-Auckland and has guaranteed inventory.

‘Whilst New Caledonia is predominantly a holiday destination we recognise there are some

clients who, for whatever reason, prefer or need to remain independent and this airfare will be perfect for them. This applies to corporates, people visiting friends or family and those who just want to do things independently.’

Hallett says the fare adds to what is already becoming an increasingly affordable, value for money destination.

‘There are so many new cafes, bars and restaurants, adding competition and the benefits that brings. Combined with the high value of the New Zealand dollar, it all helps add to New Caledonia’s appeal.’

She says the addition of the Sheraton Deva will make the destination appealing to the family markets, but adds that the sector already has options.

‘Many of the properties in Noumea are apartment style, so families can self cater if they like. But obviously, they can also take advantage of the many restaurants, juice bars, boulangeries (bakeries) and other outlets.’

Aircalin operates an A330 on Thursdays and an A320 on Sundays between Noumea and

Another side of New Caledonia – the east coast, north of Noumea

The Fench Riveira of the Pacific… boating, sailing and fishing are all niche

markets catered for from Noumea

NEW CALEDONIA

Auckland, as well as code sharing on Tuesdays and Saturdays. For the latter flights, any client booking on an SB designation can stay overnight (Monday or Friday) at the Sudima Auckland Airport at no extra charge for accommodation.

‘They can relax close to the airport and don’t have to get up quite as early the next day,’ says Hallett.

Aircalin is also introducing Noumea – Melbourne flights, Tuesdays and Fridays from June 6. In order to maintain its existing regional routes the carrier has signed an agreement with ILFC (International Lease Finance Corporation) for the lease of an A320-200. Aircalin stops flying to Seoul on March 2 and will concentrate its Asia services on Japan (both Tokyo and Osaka) with regular scheduled and supplementary flights.

Aircalin is a full service carrier, regardless of the fare paid, and all of its customers receive a checked luggage allowance of one piece in economy (up to 23 kilograms per piece) and two pieces in business (up to 23 kilograms) an extensive in-flight entertainment programme, and a comprehensive meal and drinks service.

26 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

A diverse South Pacific business-to-business event, the exhibition expects at least 50 international travel wholesalers (buyers) who will meet with an equal amount of travel and tourism product (sellers) from up to 16 Pacific Island countries and their private sector tourism operators.

Organisers have timed the event to follow the Australian Tourism Expo (ATE) in Cairns on May 11-15 and New Zealand’s trade event TrENZ (May 18-21).

‘We’ve planned SPTE deliberately after these events so that it can be a round trip for long-haul buyers already in the Pacific. We’re overwhelmed with the response from international buyers, with delegates coming from as far as Italy, Belgium and Scandinavia,’ says Petero Manufolau, SPTO marketing manager.

Manufolau says that many exhibitors who would usually have attended Bula Fiji Tourism Expo (BFTE), which was cancelled for 2014, have committed to attending SPTE. Tourism Fiji has not yet committed although several Fijian properties have. ‘But we currently have more registrations coming from islands other than Fiji because many Fijian sellers have committed to Fijian Tourism Exchange (FTE).’

Future SPTEs will depend largely on the feedback from this year’s participants, but the date of May (or whatever dates coincide with

The South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) is pleased with the response from buyers in long-haul markets who are expressing interest in the inaugural South Pacific Tourism Exchange (SPTE), at Pullman Auckland on May 22-23.

South Pacific bounces back

ATE and TrENZ) will likely continue to capture the long-haul markets in the region. ‘In future years we will also look at the potential of post-famils to take trade partners to the South Pacific.’ Australia may also be considered as a future location for the event.

Going forth

Manufolau says that although in the recent past SPTO has been focused on driving growth into the South Pacific from developing and

Petero Manufolau and Chris Cocker, South Pacific Tourism Organisation announced the

inaugural event on a visit to Auckland

The islands of the South Pacific have a new regional

trade event, the South Pacific Tourism Exchange

(SPTE). (Photo courtesy of David Kirkland)

NEW EvENT

emerging markets like Europe and North America, the inaugural event will be ‘the first of many events for the Australian and New Zealand trade’.

SPTE is being funded by the European Union and its Pacific regional Tourism Capacity Building Project, a three-year initiative that SPTO secured for 2012-14.

Maui Jim has offered TrAvELinc magazine a number of spectacular sunglasses to give away. One pair will be given to a lucky reader of this issue. To be in with a chance to win, just send an email to competitions@promag.co.nz with Maui Jim in the subject line. You will also need to answer the following question:What hotel group is featured on the front cover of this issue of TRAVELinc.

Congratulations: Marlene Phillips, Fonterra Visits Specialist in HamiltonCorrectly identified LATAM Airlines Group as being the airline featured on the front cover of the December - January issue

Win with Maui Jim

TrAvELinc february/march 2014 27

cievents -10 years in NZ10TH ANNIvErSArY

That makes 10… Mark Ferguson,

business development

manager

Natalie Simmons, cievents’ global general manager and Julie McWatt, general manager New Zealand

How has cievents grown and evolved since 2003?

Since 2003, cievents has grown from a team of about 25 people across Sydney and Melbourne to over 150 people globally. We now have offices in Auckland, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, London, Birmingham, Hong Kong and New York.

Over the past 10 years, cievents has also diversified from a traditional PCO to a full service event agency. We now offer logistics, content and production, design, multi-media and loyalty programmes, all tailored specifically for the corporate market.

What have been some of the biggest changes in the conference and incentive industry over the past few years?

Obviously there has been a lot of buzz about technology, although I believe this is across all industries and the general way in which we now communicate with one another.

I think the greatest change that we have

Full service event agency, cievents, is celebrating its 10th year in business in New Zealand. General manager of cievents New Zealand, Julie McWatt, reviews the event industry in New Zealand and shares her experiences.

experienced is the way in which companies view their conference and event spend. Procurement is one aspect of this with meetings and events management more commonly now being purchased through the procurement tender process.

The other big change is the way in which companies now see meetings and events as a far more strategic tool in their internal communication platform and the impact these interactions have pre, during and post the event. We have also seen a gradual shift of focus to more content which is then utilised after the event to keep carrying on those important business messages.

What have been some of the highlights for cievents over the past decade?

For cievents in New Zealand, it’s definitely the amazing events that we have had the opportunity to produce for our clients. The growth of our business is also a highlight and I look forward to another 10 years of success in the industry!

What are the key things your clients look for when they’re planning an event and how do you accommodate them?

We find that our clients are always looking for something unique that will provide them with a return on investment (rOI) and falls within their budget.

For many clients it’s not about saving money, it’s about delivering events to meet the key strategic business messages and ensuring that every dollar is spent to provide an rOI once the event is over. Every event that we produce is bespoke – we do not offer off the shelf solutions, nor do we look at a conference as a conference per se.

We take the time to understand the key objectives of the conference – what it is that our clients are looking to achieve across the business, the audience attending and then suggest a bespoke event and communications plan.

Where do you think cievents will be in another 10 years?

cievents will have expanded and increased our market share, and added a few more strings to our bow with the services we offer, while maintaining the bespoke approach delivered by an inspiring group of event managers and producers who are the face of cievents.

28 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

With family travel to Africa on the rise, World Journeys has been quick to meet the challenge attached to the trend – keeping every generation happy.

Generation game

‘Family travel is growing more and more popular – often with three generations in the group, so we need to keep everyone pleased, from the energetic child to the sometimes less active grandparents,’ says World Journeys director Ange Pirie.

‘It means that choosing the right properties and including a range of activities to suit all generations is key. I recently travelled to Africa with my own family and was blown away by how well the safari operators made special efforts to ensure each generation was fully engaged in the wildlife and wilderness.

‘World Journeys is happy to recommend itineraries and specific lodges or camps to any agent booking family clients to Africa,’ she adds.

Pirie says ‘hot’ destinations in general are East Africa and Botswana, but South Africa is also gaining ground, with 2014 already expected to be a ‘bumper year’ for sales to the whole continent.

She says new Africa product in World Journeys’ tailor-made brochure ‘World2014’ has already garnered positive feedback in terms of its competitive pricing. New locally escorted tours for small groups follow popular routes with ‘Wild Kingdoms’ offering six days of touring through the bushveld canyons, big game, mountains and beaches of South Africa with a safari in Kruger National Park. The package is priced from $1530 per person twin share in three star accommodation (with the option to upgrade to four star, four-and-a-half star or a private lodge) and includes breakfast, transport and sightseeing.

‘Elephant Experience, victoria Falls’ is a three-day package staying at Elephant Camp, a luxury tented camp offering close-up encounters with elephants in the Wild Horizons sanctuary.

World Journeys reminds agents that there is still time for its ‘Win the Wild’ sales incentive

AFrICA

Family travel to Africa is on the rise for World Journeys

By Ashleigh Gilchrist

(ending March 31, 2014), where the agent that books the highest number of passengers for AndBeyond’s Botswana Explorer gets to experience the package for free. The prize, for travel in October and November, includes the Maun to victoria Falls component of the 10-day mobile camping safari. ‘It’s amazing value for such a high quality, highly inclusive package,’ says Pirie. ‘It’s high end but affordable, luxurious yet truly wild.’

Demand is also high for mountain gorilla

trekking in Uganda or rwanda, the Zambezi Queen river boat safari and ‘Fly around Botswana’ and ‘Fly around East Africa’ safaris with AndBeyond.

Bucket list tick

This year marks 20 years of democracy in South Africa, and its national tourism organisation hopes the legacy of Nelson

The legacy of Nelson Mandela gives another reason to visit

South Africa in 2014

TrAvELinc february/march 2014 29

AFrICA

Airlink (a franchisee of South African Airways) will reintroduce scheduled services to Skukuza Airport, gateway to Kruger National Park, from June 2014. The airport is in the process of revamping its terminal building, and once completed will be able to process 400 passengers and 20 aircraft (10 arrivals and 10 departures) per day.

The reintroduction of the scheduled service is a significant step forward in the bid to improve visitor convenience and access to the world-renowned wildlife destination.

IN BRIEFMore access to Kruger

Tanda Tula’s new camp

Blue Train reigns

Tanda Tula Field Camp, opening in March 2014, is a non-permanent explorer-style tented camp that has been considered the most environmentally friendly camp in South Africa. The exclusive-use camp caters for two to eight guests in four custom designed tents that feature ensuite open air bush bathrooms, a communal mess tent, with furniture and soft furnishing from the Cape, North Africa and Zanzibar. Guests are hosted by some of the industry’s leading guides who leads exploration journeys within a 16,000 acre private concession in the Timbavati reserve, Greater Kruger National Park.

The Blue Train has been named Africa’s leading luxury train for the fifth consecutive year by the World Travel Awards. The all-inclusive, five-star accommodation train has around-the-clock butlers, panoramic size windows, fine dining and modern technology throughout its 27 hour, 1600 kilometre journey from Cape Town to Johannesburg.

Mandela will encourage more New Zealanders to share the country’s warm and rich history.

South Africa Tourism reports that arrival figures from New Zealand increased from January to September 2013 by close to three percent (2.9%) on the previous year, with 15,884 Kiwis visitors, and now the South African rand is offering greater opportunities for international travellers.

‘We will be tapping into Kiwis desire to travel as much as possible, with inspiring and engaging content on our offering at every touch point over the coming twelve months,’ says South Africa Tourism general manager Australasia Lalie Ngozi.

‘Our latest communications platform, centralised on encouraging New Zealanders and Australians to choose 2014 as the year to tick South Africa off their bucket list, continues to resonate very well with agents and the industry. We know that it’s more accessible than ever for travellers to tick once-in-a-lifetime

experiences off in one destination, and our efforts in communicating the benefits of an unforgettable trip to South Africa for New Zealand travellers will continue.’

East Africa famil

In October 2013, World Journeys hosted agents on a familiarisation trip to East Africa, featuring high-end safaris in the wildlife hotspots of Meru National Park, the Masai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, ending with three nights on the spice island of Zanzibar. Highlights included iconic lodges such as Elsa’s Kopje and Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, plus the AndBeyond ‘Under Canvas’ experience – luxury camping in pristine wilderness areas.

‘Hot-air ballooning over the Masai Mara, a Masai warrior dance around the fire, and some spectacular up-close leopard sightings were my personal favourite moments,’ says World

World Journeys’ ‘Botswana Explorers…high-end mobile

camping safari

AndBeyond and Great Plains Conservation are leading a translocation project for rhinos being poached in South Africa (photo courtesy of Beverly Joubert)

30 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

Destination management company (DMC) Dragonfly Africa, in conjunction with loyalty management company Aimia, won the award for the category ‘responsible Experiences – Most Impactful Effort Toward Corporate Social responsibility as Part of an Incentive Programme’. The experience was for the 2012 Microsoft Gold Club incentive for 650 people, and one of the company’s goals was to create a memorable experience that tied back to one of its initiatives, ‘to empower youth to change their world’.

As such, a programme was designed to

equip four local schools with a backpack for each student containing stationery, books and other much needed supplies, and donations came from the trip participants themselves.

‘The group arrived at the schools and were welcomed by hundreds of singing children, where the delegates delivered the backpacks then visited the classrooms and interacted with the students,’ says Dragonfly Africa team leader Debbie Holmes. In the post-event survey, 98% of participants strongly agreed or agreed that winning the Gold Club award had a positive impact on their commitment to Microsoft, and the CSr mission was a large part of the overall success of the programme. ‘Seeing first-hand the excitement of the children gave attendees stories to share with each other and with those back home, and will drive the employees to work hard to achieve the trip again,’ says Holmes.

The SITE Crystal Awards serve to honour top professionals and programmes that recognise the power of connecting motivational experiences to solid business results. The 2013 award marks the eighth SITE Cystal Award for Dragonfly since 1995.

Journeys Africa specialist and famil host Kirstine Dawson. Several group members chose to extend to Uganda to see the mountain gorillas, which involved a trek through dense jungle, well rewarded by time spent with a family of 22 gorillas as they grazed on the mountainside. ‘Our accommodation at Buhoma Lodge was lovely to come back to after such an epic experience. I highly recommend this as an add-on to any East African itinerary, it is simply one of the best things I’ve ever done, and the memories will stay with me forever.’

Rescue of the rhino

World Journeys reports that two of its safari operators, Great Plains Conservation and AndBeyond, are joining forces for the ‘Zeros for rhinos’ project, where 100 endangered rhino from poach-rife South Africa will be relocated to the safe haven of Botswana.

‘There is a battle for Africa’s wildlife raging as we speak,’ says Great Plains Conversation chief executive Dereck Joubert. ‘rhinos are being poached at a rate of one every nine hours and the official number is 1004 dead in 2013 alone. The unofficial number, because we simply do not find them all, is well over 1000.’

He says the initiative has the potential for global involvement, and announcements will be made as to how travel partners, tour operators, tourism stakeholders and guests can get involved with fundraising efforts for the US$8 million project.

‘This is not a Great Plains Conservation project or an AndBeyond one. It is a global one that we can all play a role in. I don’t believe in branded conservation — it needs to be something we all get behind to save a species. Botswana has an excellent security system in place to protect these endangered animals and will be a safe haven for the relocated rhino.’

Each rhino will be tagged and micro-chipped for research and monitoring purposes. A dedicated anti-poaching team will then work in conjunction with the Botswana government agencies to monitor the animals using the latest technology. 

AFrICA

World 2014NEW tailor-made travel brochure out now.3-star to 6-star, and everything in between!• unique product• worldwide destinations• specialist expertise• personal recommendations

EUROPE / AFRICA / NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST / INDIAN SUBCONTINENT

ASIA / CANADA & ALASKA / ANTARCTICA & THE ARCTIC / CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA

World 2014Tailor-Made Journeys

WO

RLD

JOU

RN

EY

S 2

01

4 0

80

0 1

1 7

3 1

1 w

ww

.wo

rldjo

urn

ey

s.co

.nz

0800 117311 Email info@worldjourneys.co.nzwww.worldjourneys.co.nz

Dragonfly Africa won its eighth SITE Crystal Award for a school supplies programme

organised for the Microsoft Gold Club

An incentive experience involving Microsoft and local South African schools has been awarded a SITE (Society of Incentive Travel Executives) Crystal Award, regarded by many as the ‘Oscars’ of the incentive travel industry.

African incentive wins SITE

award

Bush breakfast...World Journeys hosted an agents famil to East Africa in October 2013

TrAvELinc february/march 2014 31

Fiji’s first female speed boat captain, Yolanda Whippy (centre) with Rosie Holidays Rony Bole and Chris Green

Tourism Fiji, in conjunction with the InterContinental Fiji resort & Spa, The Westin and Sofitel in Denarau, rosie Holidays and ATS Pacific, hosted a group of professional Conference Organisers (PCOs) to showcase what Fiji can offer groups and incentives.

Arriving into Nadi the group was shown vIP treatment, including a meet and greet off the Fiji Airways flight from Auckland, whisked through immigration and on to the rosie Holidays coach to the InterContinental Fiji resort & Spa in a matter of minutes.

rosie Holidays’ Chris Green took the PCOs through the finer details of what is available for their market. ‘From the minute a group arrives, we are there waiting. We can arrange branding on the coach, welcome banners at the hotel and personalised menus – we work with the organiser and their needs,’ says Green.

Culinary skills

Eager to show off his culinary skills, InterContinental Fiji’s Chef de Partie in signature restaurant Navo and Fiji’s chef of the year for 2013, ritesh Kumar, created a selection of

FIJI FAMIL

Soul of the people

Ready to head up the Sigatoka River with Sigatoka River Safari; from front - Ian Yee (with kava root), HOT Events; Steph Mildon, GO C&I; Chris Green, Rosie Holidays; Virginie Thomson, Orbit Corporate Travel; Cameron Taylor, Tourism Fiji; Jo Boyd, Williment Travel Management; and David Redmond, The Experience Group

By Ruth Scott

With a new convention centre in the wings and a new exhibition, the Fiji Tourism Expo, (FTE) Fiji wants to welcome more visitors to its friendly shores.

32 TrAvELinc february/march 2014

FIJI FAMIL

canapés for the sunset cocktails beside the Club‘s infinity pool. Club InterContinental is a resort within a resort. It offers all the extras – butler service, private check-in and check-out, all day non alcoholic drinks and afternoon tea in the Club InterContinental lounge, sunset canapés and cocktails and a private plunge pool in all ground floor Club suites.

With 55 Club suites available, the Club section of the resort is suitable for sole use. ‘The product works well for incentives,’ says Jocelyn Whiteside, InterContinental Fiji Golf resort & Spa. ‘We can hold cocktail functions around the pool, then dine at Navo restaurant or one of the many dining sites around the resort.’

In total, the property has 271 rooms, all featuring a private, outdoor bath tub; a spa with 10 treatment rooms offering signature treatments based around heat, water and ice and a host of excursions and team building options.

Whiteside adds that the resort has buyouts for 2014, including a Kiwi group for four nights, two groups from America and one from Asia.

No red carpet

When it comes to an activity, Chris Green says it should be fun and memorable. ‘We tailor make offsite activities for half or full days including village visits, adrenalin activities or soft adventure.‘ For the PCOs, Green and his team instructed the group to vacate the coach as they were going to wander through a local market.

Chatting to the stall holders and keeping the group distracted, charismatic guide rony Bole kept the banter going until the arrival of the Bula Bus, a 35 year old local bus. Authentically restored and the only one in Nadi, the Bula Bus or to the locals – the full loaf - aptly named because it looks like a full loaf of bread, can be decorated to suit. A Fijian band jumps onboard, and with natural air conditioning (no glass) the sounds of ‘Bula’ resonate back and forth with the villagers as the bus drives by.

Bole entertained the ‘passengers’ with stories of Fiji. ‘We don’t do red carpet in Fiji. I am taking you to see my family – to the soul of the people. Everyone is family and welcome in the village’

Bole took a root of kava, the ‘door to the village’, to be presented to the chief once the visitors arrive.

Sigatoka river Safaris transport the group upriver by jetboat. Dotted with 52 villages along its shoreline, the Sigatoka river is the longest river in Fiji at 120 km. Apart from one bridge in Sigatoka, locals cross the strong current by bilibili – a bamboo raft, or swim. reaching the village, a kava ceremony ensues as well as lunch and Fijian singing and dancing.

Hard day at the office

Told to bring togs, towel and sunscreen, the famil participants had a day on the water with an exclusive lunch on a sand bar – low tide required, around 80 dolphins performing on cue and snorkeling in the turquoise waters of the Mamanucas.

Cameron Taylor, Tourism Fiji says trips like this can be arranged as part of a partner programme, or as a day out of the boardroom for all the delegates. ’Depending on numbers and the

tides, a couple of hours on a white sand island, complete with a chilly bin of ice cold drinks and lunch makes paradise a reality.’

Sofitel Fiji resort & Spa hosted the group for the final night and set the stage alight with a fire show and Polynesian dancers on the lawn followed by dinner on a private area on the verandah.

Able to cater for up to 650 delegates for a seated dinner or 800 buffet style, Sofitel also has break out spaces and smaller indoor and outdoor venue options are dotted around the resort, all of which can be themed.

The water doesn’t get much clearer than this as Jo Boyd, Williment Travel Group; Virginie Thomson, Orbit Corporate Travel and Steph Mildon, GO C&I settle in for the boat trip

Ian Yee, HOT Events; Steph Mildon, GO C&I and Cameron Taylor, Tourism Fiji with coconut cocktails at the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa welcome function

TrAvELinc february/march 2014 33

An exotic short haul destination, where the French Riviera meets the South Pacific, is less than 3 hours direct flying time from Auckland. New Caledonia is the perfect choice

for your next conference or incentive trip. With top quality accommodation, excellent meeting facilities and an extensive range of activities on both the mainland and the

islands ... it really is hard to beat. Choosing Aircalin means that you will have the true New Caledonia experience from start to finish. For more information call (09) 977 2238.

www.aircalin.com

Drinks EntertainmentMeals Luggage

New Caledonia.New Meeting Place.