Built around the concept Connect, Learn and Grow, the forum combined professional development, industry insights and networking, with a strong focus on maintaining momentum and pursuing further growth in 2027.
‘From AI and technology to personal development and sales excellence, we are equipping our advisors with the tools and confidence they need to grow their businesses and continue delivering outstanding outcomes for customers,’ says Hunter.
The two-day event brought together frontline travel professionals, preferred partners and industry leaders at Auckland’s Viaduct Events Centre for its 2026 Frontliners Forum, including representatives from the Helloworld Branded, Associates, My Travel Group and The Travel Brokers networks.
Hunter opened the forum with an update on the New Zealand business and the opportunities ahead for its advisors and member businesses.
‘Our Frontliners Forum is about investing in the people who make our industry exceptional,’ Hunter says.
New Zealand actor, presenter and voice of Helloworld, Antonia Prebble served as master of ceremonies.
The keynote programme explored key influences shaping the future of travel retail. Speakers covered practical applications of artificial intelligence and workplace tools, authentic content creation, and personal development and performance, challenging delegates to take ownership of their attitude, performance and future success.
Business and industry sessions covered sales strategies in an AI-driven environment, wholesale product and market developments, emerging travel trends and Helloworld technology initiatives, including the Helloworld Trips app, CRM development and Resworld mid-office systems. Technology was positioned as a powerful enabler of human expertise, with the trusted advice and accountability of professional travel advisors remaining central to the customer experience.
Delegates also connected with preferred partners through interactive Networking Lounge sessions, an Amazing Race-style team activity and the popular “Beers, Bubbles and Banter” networking function.
The forum concluded with the Helloworld Branded Gala Awards Dinner, celebrating the network’s leading stores, individual achievers and preferred partner top performers. Outstanding Contribution to the Brand awards went to Debbie Natoli and Fergus Clark. Helloworld Cambridge took out the Top Store award, while Olivier Turner from Helloworld Rotorua was named Top Consultant.
Ponant’s Alan Wilcock with Tim Dunnill, The Travel Brokers; Harry Vo, Hubert Corporation Ltd
Air Tahiti Nui’s Heirani Chansin with Brooke Thompson and Kaileigh Howard, Rototuna
Prizes for the newest recruit to Helloworld, (one week), Tiffany Pearce Pepperell from Porirua, to one of the longest, (since 1971), Janet Lewisham, The Travel Brokers
Sali Marinkovic, Helloworld Whangarei; Harriet Kesterton, Allianz; Sharlene Lusty, Helloworld Pukekohe; Tahlia Crocker, Allianz
Chelsea Fowler and Leo Li, Singapore Airlines with Tracey Bluck, Helloworld Mount Maunganui; Britney Orr, Helloworld Rotorua
