The tag-line of the conference was Saddle Up – Trailblazing our way into 2027, and there was plenty of western regalia to suit the theme.
Walker notes large increases in revenue from tours and cruises as well as a large boost in brand awareness through initiatives such as the Travel Expo in Auckland (the first since Covid), a pop-up location in Christchurch and successful April Fools activity.
‘We’ve gained more customers, investing in marketing and planning even more events – we’re back,’ she adds.
Walker notes that a new customer value proposition will be launched in the next few months – with details to come.
Graham (Skroo) Turner, appearing by video, acknowledged the role Flight Centre has played in bringing new talent into the industry and developing leaders in New Zealand.
‘We are proud that so many people have started with us and grown into leadership positions in travel – even if they are no longer with us.’
Turner says the company will continue to adopt AI to enhance what Flight Centre can do for both customers and suppliers. ‘However, there will always be a place for the human touch, particularly on the frontline but also in finance, marketing and other areas of our business.’
Terence Blokker, chief financial officer, picked up on that theme. ‘AI will play a pivotal role, but that’s AI plus human skills. Look at it like a new saddle and stirrups – you still need the horse and the rider, but the journey will be smoother and more comfortable.’
Blokker highlighted FCTG’s strong performance in FY26, with the business achieving record double-digit TTV growth. Looking ahead, he said the company’s continued growth will come from acquiring more customers and expanding its store network.
Angie Forsyth of the SME business division, Corporate Traveller New Zealand, also reported year-on-year profit growth and the launch of its Innovation Lab to solve problems and put solutions to the test.
Kelly Thomas, FCM New Zealand, reported record profit for the division as well as securing its biggest customer yet. ‘When things get difficult, we ensure our people are ready to make the call for our clients. We have been trailblazing with AI and pushing for growth as well as retaining our customers.’
Kelly de Graaf, head of Luxury Brands New Zealand, says the network added three businesses, representing 14 new advisors and leaders
‘This is important because there is high demand for talented luxury advisors across New Zealand. We’re looking to invite more top-tier talent into the brand and grow our footprint.’
Night of glitz and glamour for Flight Centre Travel Group New Zealand Awards
Flight Centre wrapped up its 2026 national conference with a Gilded Gala at the Cordis Auckland on Saturday night. The theme moved from the day’s western touch to an evening reflecting Bridgerton and glamour with plenty of Flightie flavoured celebration and recognition.
The awards came a few hours after the conference address by keynote speaker and former journalist Jehan Casinader, who provided strategies for cutting through the negative messages dominating the news and social platforms. These included checking the news just once a day, looking for facts rather than opinion and ‘flipping the script’ to ask ‘what is the best that can happen rather than the worst?’
FCNZ country leader Heidi Walker summarised with a reminder that the conference audience has the power to ‘create positive inputs for your teams and for your customers.
‘Don’t forget we have just had our best year ever and you should all be immensely proud – give yourself some applause.’
Some of the highlight award winners were: Aotearoa Hall of Fame, Karen Jelas; Aotearoa Merit of Excellence Award, Tony Zhang; Aotearoa Directors Award, Corporate Traveller leadership team.
Global award winners recognised: Top Corporate Traveller country overall satisfaction rate globally, Corporate Traveller New Zealand; Travel Associates Global Top Advisor, Alex Hannagan.
Outstanding achievement: Corporate Traveller, Andy Dunlop; FCM, Zain Butter, Support for Corporate, Elyza Taylor; Envoyage, Natasha Crowle; Flight Centre brand, Sian Cribbens; People Experience, Grace Hague; Marketing FC Brand, Bella Barmes; Travel Associates, Kelly Streeter; Finance, Dianella Stewart; Supply Nation, Trika Wibisono.
Infinity Awards: Top Cruise Consultant, Kaye Clements; Top Holidays Consultant, Lee Babbidge; Overall Team, Infinity Cruise Team Legacy; Top Individual Improvement, Kate Moriarty.
Travel Associate awards: Most productive shop, Streeter and Turner; Most Profitable and Most Improved Shop: Hannagan and Grieve; Top Travel Advisor, Alex Hannagan; Top New to Brand Advisor, Hannah Freeman.
FCM Awards: Top TTV, Greer Walker; BDM New Business Turnover, Kate Amiss; Top Performing Account Manager – Transfer, Nikitas McCarthy.
Corporate Traveller: Top TTV, Therese McInally; Top Performing BDM, Sheree Drinkrow; Customer Success Manager, Amy Steyn; Flight Centre Brand Top Consultant, Gon Vega.
