1000 Mile Travel Group recently hosted its annual Australian Top Achievers Trip, celebrating the exceptional performance of its top independent travel advisors. Over five days, attendees were treated to a seamless blend of luxury, adventure, and insider industry experiences that highlighted the very best of New Zealand.
The journey began in Auckland, where advisors were welcomed with a visit to the iconic SkyTower, followed by an elegant dinner at Cassia and an overnight stay at the luxurious Horizon Hotel. The following morning offered an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Air New Zealand’s hangar 22 and future cabin aircraft experience, where participants heard directly from engineers about innovative future developments and gained insights into what it takes to prepare an aircraft for passengers.
The group then travelled to the stunning Rosewood Kauri Cliffs, a property featuring three private beaches, expansive grounds, and villas with panoramic ocean and golf course views. The team enjoyed a guided tour across the estate, taking in the breathtaking Pink Beach, the farmland and the magnificent coastal scenery, and for some a hit on the world-class golf course.
Saturday offered a day packed with unforgettable experiences, including a helicopter tour of the Bay of Islands with Salt Air, a luxury yacht cruise aboard Silver Wave complete with a chef-prepared meal, and opportunities for paddleboarding. The magic of Northland continued with advisors treated to an unforgettable kiwi encounter, a peaceful stargazing experience courtesy of Kora Tours NZ, and a visit to Marsden Estate Winery.
“What an incredible trip to recognise our Top Achievers at 1000 Mile Travel Group! Every detail was taken care of, and our advisors were treated from the moment they arrived. From Air New Zealand lounge access to luxurious accommodation, a heli tour, a round of golf, a luxury yacht experience, and unforgettable food and wine — I’m truly grateful to our partners for making this such a memorable celebration,” said Lauren Gray, 1000MTG General Manager – Australia.
This year’s 1000MTG Top Achievers were recognised for their outstanding performance and contribution. Sam Rowe earned the title of Top Corporate Expert, while Kurt Hufer was awarded Top Leisure Expert. As Kurt was unable to attend the trip, fellow Top Leisure finalist Nick Anderson represented the leisure category on his behalf, joining the celebration. The Travel Team, led by Emily Davidson and Stephanie McDonald, took home Top Team for FY25.
“What a wonderful 5 days in New Zealand. The hospitality of our suppliers and hosts was just magic; they created such a memorable experience. The property at Rosewood and the staff were brilliant, and the scenery was spectacular. Thank you, everyone, for a fantastic trip,” said Emily Davidson, 1000MTG Top Team.
Ben Jenke was named Rising Star for his strong growth and momentum.
“Fantastic trip to Auckland and the Bay of Islands with some colleagues, everything was perfect, thank you to Air NZ, Sky City Horizon, Rosewood Estate Kauri Cliffs and Lauren Gray for organising, very grateful!” said Ben Jenke, 1000MTG Rising Star.
While Amy Crossland received Most Engaged Expert for her exceptional contribution to the 1000MTG community.
“Our 1000 Mile Top Achievers trip to the Bay of Islands, hosted by Rosewood Hotels Kauri Cliffs, was truly an unforgettable experience. This is such an underrated and simply stunning part of New Zealand. We were extremely spoiled by Rosewood Kauri Cliffs; the food, the rooms, and the experience were just out of this world. However, it was the exceptional staff that truly made the experience memorable,” said Amy Crossland, 1000MTG Most Engaged Expert.
This extraordinary journey not only celebrated top-performing advisors but also showcased the unparalleled experiences available through 1000MTG’s global network, reinforcing the company’s commitment to excellence, community, and inspiring travel professionals to reach new heights.
“We had a wonderful Top Achievers trip to New Zealand. We were looked after superbly by Air New Zealand, Rosewood Estate Kauri Cliffs and the Horizon Sky City Auckland. I had the privilege of playing one of the top 50 golf courses in the world, we had helicopter trips, cruises, wonderful food and scenery, and a trip to the Air NZ design centre. We even got lucky with the weather. Loved all of it! Many thanks to 1000MTG and all the suppliers for everything!” said Sam Rowe, 1000MTG Top Corporate Expert.
