Canal boating along the Canal du Midi

Life is a collection of moments and memories.  

Both planning your travel and the journey itself should be enjoyable. I find joy in working with travellers to build holidays that are perfect for them. 

Travel has been a constant in my life since my OE started with a classic Contiki trip through Europe, followed by working in London and traveling through the UK, Turkey, Egypt, and Israel. I also spent a year working in Iceland—a now trendy travel hotspot—before returning to New Zealand.

In 2000, my family moved to the middle east living in both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, which provided an exciting base for exploring nearby destinations. We had unforgettable holidays in Austria, France, the UK, Cyprus, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Sri Lanka, and Kenya.

Returning to New Zealand marked a new chapter of travel, this time without children. Recent adventures have included Vietnam, India, China, Peru, and Cambodia.

My travel career started with Singapore Airlines and since 2019 I’ve been consulting at House of Travel in Howick.  I love talking and connecting with clients, listening to their travel dreams and turning them into memorable experiences.  

Whether you're looking for an island getaway, relaxing cruise or an exciting adventure, I’m here to help you plan the perfect trip.

Travel is an adventure that brings the world to life. 

Cherone

Chris has travelled the globe several times over... with his 30 plus years' experience in the industry he is unquestionably efficient and knowledgeable when it comes to organising any form of travel!

Chris' passion for his career is evident in all holidays he organises. His personal travel experiences compliment his leisure travel background, as he can think outside the box logistically and ensure that all your travel needs are met, and you are guided throughout your journey. 

"Whether your travel dreams are exploring the rugged West Coast of New Zealand to a luxury break in Fiji, I am 100% committed to ensuring you have the best experience planning and fulfilling your dream holiday." 

Outside of work, you will find Chris in the great outdoors having fished his way throughout New Zealand, hiked the Inca Trail in Peru, skied the Canadian Rockies, just to name a few. 

Work, save, travel, repeat. 

Why I love travel: 

There is so many different cultures to experience and history that goes way beyond New Zealand's few hundred years of course - stunning natural beauty can be enjoyed all over the world.

My travel tips:

• If you are there - do it. Travel is all about experiences that create wonderful memories, so don't regret not doing something because you were concerned about the price - the bank won't mind and you will talk about it for years to come. 
• Pack light as you can always find a laundromat - though I do need to take me own advice! 
• Find the most comfortable walking shoes you can find and break them in before you go. You will probably do lots of walking in some countries .... old European cobbled streets can take a toll. 
• Be prepared to and learn how to tip so you don't get thought of as a bad tourist - most of the world tips for service and yet it's so foreign to us, but very important to do so. 

My top 5 favourite destinations: 

• Pacific Islands - a close tropical beach escape. The rest of the world dreams of these exotic locations and they are just there for us. 
• Canada - amazing wilderness experiences on a grand scale.
• Italy - organised chaos! I just love the expressive personalities of the people, as well the fabulous food and drink and amazing history. 
• Vietnam - a bit of everything from great beaches to amazing food and stunning rural scenery and different minority cultures.
• Mediterranean Cruise - why not take your hotel with you - wake up each day with a new culture and experience to be had - this is the place to cruise!

What's in my suitcase:

• Too much - I must do better!
• One universal adaptor and a 4 plug New Zealand multi box

Chris

For over 20 years, I’ve had the incredible privilege of helping people explore the world. From weekend getaways to once-in-a-lifetime journeys, I’ve sent travelers to every corner of the globe—each trip teaching me something new and deepening my passion for travel planning.

What I love most is working with people to craft experiences that go far beyond just itineraries and bookings. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family adventure, a cultural deep dive, or a soul-searching solo trip, I take the time to understand what matters most to you. Together, we create meaningful, memorable journeys that you’ll carry with you for a lifetime.

In the past few years, the travel landscape has changed dramatically. Flight disruptions, evolving health regulations, and new requirements have made things more complicated than ever. But with experience comes adaptability. We've become experts at staying ahead of the curve—navigating changes with confidence, keeping you informed, and ensuring your plans stay on track no matter what.

My goal is simple: to take the stress out of travel so you can focus on the joy of discovery. From the moment we start planning to the moment you return home, I’m here to make your experience smooth, enjoyable, and truly unforgettable.

Travel might be more complex today—but that’s exactly why having someone in your corner makes all the difference. Let’s plan something amazing.

Esther