A meal to remember in the Daintree Rainforest

Sharon has been with the House of Travel team for 15 years and is known throughout the New Zealand wide team as Shaz. Shaz's 10 years' experience in the groups and events division is invaluable.

Her knowledge of the best seats at the Australian Open, to her contacts for all things Motor Sport makes her an integral part of our team. 

A tennis player herself, Shaz has a passion for the sport and having attended many times has valuable information, she can help tick the Grand Slams off your bucket list. 

"I love helping all our clients with their dream holiday based around a special event, anywhere in the world I will endeavor to access the best possible tickets for your experience. My motto is to create memories, not things". 

Away from the events world, Shaz works in her beauty business.... that is when she isn't on the court. 

Favourite place to visit: Thailand
Next place on the list to visit: Africa

There is nothing like having an outgoing and versatile member on a team—and Andy is ours. His approachable, honest style fosters strong relationships and consistently positive experiences for clients, suppliers, and colleagues alike.

Travel has always been a defining part of Andy’s life. He caught the travel bug early - 3 formative years of living in the USA during his childhood hardwired his love for travel.  Since then, he has taken every opportunity to see the world, often venturing to remote and remarkable destinations. Whether trekking through the Patagonian Andes, wandering the piazzas of Italy, or visiting family spread around the globe, Andy is truly in his element.

With nearly ten years in the travel industry, Andy has had the opportunity to experience an exceptional range of destinations and build deep, practical knowledge. No matter where you want to go, he brings expert insight and thoughtful advice to help make your journey genuinely unforgettable.

“I can help you visit anywhere and experience anything—you're only limited by how far your imagination can stretch.”

Years in the industry: 10
Countries visited: 12
Favourite destination: Amalfi Coast
Next destination on the list: Poland

“Not all those who wander are lost.” — J.R.R. Tolkien

Why I Love Travel

The places I see and the people I meet—travel truly is the best way to broaden the mind. It allows you to experience and learn from different cultures and walks of life. Life is short; travel often.

My Travel Tips

• If you are always early, you are never late.
• Pre-book as much as possible before departure and schedule rest days on longer trips.
• Live courageously—100% of the opportunities you don’t take are missed.

My Top Three Favourite Destinations

Italy
The food, history, people, dramatic coastlines, and mountains—Italy deserves a place on everyone’s bucket list.

USA
With its extraordinary diversity of cultures and experiences, you could spend a lifetime exploring the United States and still not see it all.

Patagonia
Challenging to reach, but the dramatic landscapes that greet you make every moment of the journey worthwhile.

What’s in My Suitcase

• Kindle / E-reader – Lightweight, easy to pack, and long-lasting battery life; an essential on every trip.
• Noise-cancelling headphones – Ideal for busy airports and long-haul flights.
• Travel plug adapter – Easy to forget, but absolutely essential.

Andy

My love for travel began early - at 19, I left New Zealand with a one-way ticket to London to start my OE, and I've never looked back. I spent eight years living overseas, including four incredible years in London, where I explored Europe extensively. (Barcelona still has my heart!) 

I began my travel career in Melbourne in 2004, and knew I'd found my dream career. Even know, I still smile every day coming to work - I truly LOVE what I do. 

I did step away from the travel industry for a few years to raise my family, but the pull of travel was simply too strong. Coming back confirmed what I already knew: there is nothing else I would rather be doing. No two days are ever the same, and helping to create someone's dream holiday is a true privilege. 

Helping clients plan their adventures brings me so much joy. I specialize in point-to-point Europe itineraries, and I'm especially passionate about tours and cruising. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a multi-generational family holiday, a tailor-made Europe itinerary or a cruising holiday, I'll work with you to create a trip that fits within your budget and needs.

I pride myself on attention to detail and prompt turnaround times with my work. I believe I also go above and beyond for my clients - many now see me more as a friend, because we've built such strong relationships. Whether it's your first trip or your tenth, I'm here to make your journey smooth, exciting, and unforgettable from start to finish.

I'm known for being friendly, bubbly, and a great listener. I'll take the time to understand your needs and offer thoughtful advice and suggestions to make your trip the best it can be. 

I live on our dairy farm in Reporoa with my Husband Mathew and our three young children, who go to school in Rotorua. We are a busy sporting family, so I understand the #mumlife juggle and the importance of taking time out for a well-earned holiday, either as a family or for a lush couples' getaway! 

Some of our favourite family trips have been around Vietnam and to the theme parks on the Gold Coast, and next on our list with the kids in Japan. For my husband and I, a favourite recent trip was to Bali - the beachfront cocktails were amazing! Our next couples' getaway is to Langkawi in Malaysia!

Don't just dream about it - lets start planning. Get in touch today and let me turn your travel dreams into your next boarding pass. 

Sarah

I have had a lifelong love affair for exploring the world. Raised in a family that prioritised travel, I inherited a passion for all things travel. I have lived in different countries (London, USA, Argentina) and I am fascinated with the rich tapestry of culture, people, religion and food in new places. 

My love for travel has taken me to some of the world’s most amazing places!

From Mauritius to Bahamas and all in between, I have been privileged to experience the world and being able to speak and understand 5 languages English, Afrikaans, Dutch, German and Greek) certainly comes in helpful.

I have grown up in South Africa, spending most of my adult life there, being able to show my clients what makes this region so unique is a privilege. Africa was my backyard after all and even after living in NZ for almost 12 years, my heart still beats to the African Drum.

For me, choosing a favourite destination is impossible. But .. Bali has literally captivated my heart, and even though I have been there 20+ times, I still always find new things to uncover. As does the Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles, these islands just have the “it” factor

I also love ocean cruising, especially Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Cruising offers such a great variety and a chance to see multiple destinations and experiencing iconic landmarks and locations from your hotel on the sea. 

I WOULD SAY MY PASSION IS MAKING MY CLIENTS DREAM HOLIDAYS COME TRUE AND I PRIDE MYSELF ON MY EFFICIENT SERVICE AT ALL TIMES.