26/08/2026
A recent 36 hours in Auckland was time very well spent - learning, upskilling, reconnecting with my Wanderlust whānau and making valuable new connections.
Two destinations. Two very different days of learning. And a notebook now bursting with ideas.
First up was the JNTO Japan Roadshow, where I met with representatives from hotels, rail companies, luggage delivery services, tour operators and attractions.
A few particularly useful discoveries:
🚄 You can hire an entire car on the Shinkansen and theme it for your group. Now that could make for one very memorable train journey!
🧳 Japan’s luggage delivery services can move your bags between destinations, saving you from wrestling suitcases through busy stations.
🏨 JR Central Hotels provided a brilliantly practical guide showing exactly how close each hotel is to the nearest station. It’s a small detail that can make a very big difference when planning a smooth itinerary.
The following day was the Tourism Fiji Roadshow - and what a day it was! We met suppliers “speed-dating style”, with ten minutes at each table in small groups. Fast-paced, focused and an excellent way to have proper conversations.
From newly refurbished Beachcomber Island and Shangri-La’s rather tempting Dusk to Dawn spa package, to Malolo, Likuliku, Castaway Island, Musket Cove, Matamanoa, Sofitel and the utterly gorgeous Savasi Island… there was plenty to get excited about.
These days aren’t simply about collecting brochures. They give me direct contacts with the people who can help when a client needs a favour, a waiver or perhaps a thoughtful little extra. That personal connection can be invaluable when it matters.
A huge vinaka to Tourism Fiji and every supplier involved for such a fabulous, well-organised day. We were exceptionally well looked after from morning tea right through to the final drinks and canapés - and I even came home with a gorgeous Pure Fiji gift pack. Networking is tough, but someone has to do it. 😄
