Coombes, Emily Pilbrow who was named Diamond of the Season, and Manaia Katene from the Palmerston North store.
Flight Centre Travel Group spent the weekend celebrating its people, and reflecting on the year that has been, with its annual National Conference and Awards taking place.
The conference featured the theme Saddle Up: Trailblazing into 2027, reflecting on the group’s strong 2026 so far, with country leader Heidi Walker highlighting the significant contribution of FCTG New Zealand’s people in helping the New Zealand business achieve more than 10% TTV growth in FY26.
“It’s been a big year for the travel sector and for our business, and we’re incredibly proud of what our teams have delivered for Kiwi travellers. “The conference also highlighted what’s next, including the group’s continued efforts to embrace artificial intelligence in practical ways, such as to simplify administrative tasks.
“By giving our people more time to focus on what matters most— creating exceptional travel experiences—we’re unlocking new opportunities for both our teams, our customers and our business.”
. . . Awards
The conference wrapped up in regency-style, with a Bridgerton themed awards gala hosted by Jono and Ben. Winners including Karen Jelas who received the Aotearoa Hall of Fame Award, and Tony Zhang, taking home the Aotearoa Merit of Excellence Award. Corporate Traveller won big too; its leadership team won the Aotearoa Directors Award while its New Zealand team overall was Top Corporate Traveller globally for Overall Customer Satisfaction Rate. Alex Hannagan also gets a mention, as Travel Associates Global Top Advisor.
Walker congratulated the evening’s winners, saying they led with purpose, and made a real impact over the past year. See all the Gilded Age album HERE and the Saddle Up Conference photos HERE.
