New TAANZ Hall of Fame member Kay Rogers was back at her You Travel Bethlehem store first thing today, doing what she loves: meeting clients.
“I’m still sitting in the front of the shop. I was a bit late, I came in at 8.30,’’ says the four-decade travel industry veteran. “I do think you have to practice what you preach.”
At the NTIA awards on Sat Rogers was described by TAANZ president Tori Courtney as ‘being no fuss, straight talking and someone who doesn’t suffer fools; behind that is deep respect, genuine friendship, and unwavering loyalty to partners, peers, and the industry’.
Rogers made her mark at United Travel in the Bay of Plenty with four stores and then played an instrumental role in shaping the You Travel brand through the last decade.
She has become the first woman travel agency owner be inducted into the Hall of Fame. It was great that a woman has been recognised and positivity had driven her success, she says. ”I like challenges—I don’t consider what the alternative is.’’
She and business partner Catherine Membery pioneered highly popular local travel expos, golf tournaments and events such as European themed coach tours around the local area.
And Rogers was early to recognise the appeal of cruise to Kiwis and remains keen on expedition cruises herself. She says consultants need to experience what they’re selling and encourages them to take famil and training opportunities.
. . . How To Cope
A personal tragedy, the death of her 17-year-old son about 30 years ago, has helped her put problems she faces at work into perspective.
She’s seen big geopolitical and health events rock the travel industry, but the loss of her son had given her a unique measure of how bad problems are.
“That’s my barometer in terms of asking whether this is a tragedy— it’s not as bad as what I’ve already been through.”
She advises those new to industry ‘not to sweat the small stuff’. Booking problems can always be sorted out. “You never know what’s around the corner but there’s nothing that can’t be solved,’’ she says.
. . . Lasting Legacy
Rogers, from Taupo, had a book-keeping background, working first at Mount Travel, Courtney told the audience on Sat night.
“But it didn’t take long for natural ability with people, sharp commercial instincts and passion for the industry to shine through. From consul tant to manager, and ultimately to owner, (her) path was one of steady growth and bold decisions.”
The TAANZ Hall of Fame member ship is for those who make an outstanding and lasting contribution to travel.
TAANZ ceo Julie White says Rogers’ leadership is exceptional.
“Kay Rogers has made an extraordinary contribution to NZ’s travel industry over many decades. Her leadership, professionalism and unwavering commitment have helped shape and strengthen the sector for future generations.”
